“9-1-1” (nine, one, one) is the nation-wide emergency phone number to dial in an emergency. You can dial by mobile/cell phone or traditional landline telephone and even VOIP (voice over internet protocol).
9-1-1 should only be dialed for emergencies involving fire, crime, or medical scenarios of life-and-death. Prank calls and inquiries outside of emergencies should never occur, but they often do. These inappropriate calls can be 50% or more of PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point) volume. Not only do these call centers have their time and efforts wasted, but first responders like law enforcement and fire departments often deploy for inappropriate originating calls, which wastes tax payer dollars and takes away emergency resources from those in dire need of first responders.
Expert guidance suggests you are prepared to answer these questions when calling 9-1-1:
Location: What is the location of the emergency? What is the street address?
Phone number: What is the phone number you are calling from?
Description: Is this a medical emergency? Crime about to happen? Crime in-progress? Did a crime just occur? Is there a fire?
Never hang-up on the call-taker until you are instructed to do so.
Training materials are available in multiple languages along with content specialized for children and youths. Visit our online store to see what is available.
9-1-1 education is as important as any other emergency preparedness skill-set or tool!