When you dial 9-1-1:

• Speak calmly and clearly.

• Give your location first, then your name and cell phone number.

• Describe the nature of the emergency.

• Be ready to answer questions and/or follow instructions from the call taker.

• If you get disconnected, dial 9-1-1 again.

• Stay on the line until the call taker tells you to hang up.

Dialing 9-1-1 is the quickest possible way for you to reach emergency responders including the police or sheriff, fire department or ambulance.

• You should use 9-1-1 in situations such as serious injury, medical emergencies, anytime you see a fire or smell smoke when not appropriate, or if you see suspicious activities or persons in your neighborhood.

Did you know??

• If, for any reason, you are unable to speak into the phone, you may feel more secure knowing that 9-1-1 call takers can usually locate you because your address and telephone number are displayed on their equipment when you call using landline phones. However, when using a cell phone, the 9-1-1 call taker may not know where you are or what the problem is unless you are able to convey that information to them.

9-1-1 is always a free call from home, car phone, cell phone, or pay phones with dial tones.

• In addition, all 9-1-1 answering points are equipped to take calls from deaf or hearing/speech impaired callers using TTY’s. Call takers also utilize Language Line to assist non-English speaking residents in communicating vital information concerning emergencies.