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How does 911 work?

calling 911
calling 911

Calling 911 may seem like a basic process, but it is good to know what to expect if you ever have to call in an emergency.

The correct process of making a 911 call

  • Step 1: You have an emergency, which is when you need help to save a life or want to report a crime or fire.
  • Step 2: You dial 911–make sure you stay calm.
  • Step 3: A local dispatcher answers your call.

How does your call get directed to the right center?

When you call from a landline phone, the number determines which 911 dispatch center is the appropriate one for your location and transfers your call there. These dispatch centers, also known as Public Safety Answering Points (PSAP), have phone numbers that are assigned to come into them. If you call from a cell phone, your call will transfer to the appropriate PSAP and emergency responders will be sent to the location of the emergency.

  • Step 4: The dispatcher asks questions about your emergency.
  • Step 5: Dispatcher prioritizes the call based on urgency.
  • Step 6: Dispatcher sends emergency responders.
  • Step 7: Follow the dispatcher’s directions about how to proceed.
  • Step 8: Wait for help to arrive.

When to call 911

  • To save a life
  • To report a crime
  • To report a fire

Unsure if you should dial 911?

  • Do call if:
  • Do not call if:

Still unsure? Call 911!

Misdials and pranks

  • Why prank calls to 911 are dangerous
  • What to do if you accidently misdial and call 911

Sources

Special thanks to Kenneth Bass, E911 Coordinator from the Santa Rosa County EMC

http://kidshealth.org/kid/watch/er/911.html

http://kidshealth.org/kid/watch/house/emergency.html?tracking=K_RelatedArticle

http://www.911dispatch.com/911/911_misdials.html

http://firstaid.about.com/od/callingforhelp/ht/06_Good911.htm

http://firstaid.about.com/od/callingforhelp/qt/whentocall.htm

http://www.whentocall911.com/

http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=126252

http://www.portlandonline.com/911/index.cfm?a=19504&c=26658

http://web.archive.org/web/20080804001221/

http://www.nena.org/pages/ContentList.asp?CTID=22

http://web.archive.org/web/20080804001357/

http://www.nena.org/pages/ContentList.asp?CTID=23

http://transition.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/wireless911srvc.pdf

http://web.archive.org/web/20090102025401/

http://www.nashville.gov/ecc/911_info_caller_tips.htm

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