How to Make a 911 Call

Several hundred thousand calls are made each day to the 911 system. Local agencies decide on policy and procedure. The 911 number is free at pay phones. This emergency number is relayed to police, fire or medical emergency units. Many times the lines are jammed up with calls that are not designed for the 911 system. This is due to non-emergency calls, testing a phone or accidental auto-dials.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Make a 911 phone call only in an emergency. Medical emergency, fire, life-threatening events and crimes in progress are all reasons to make the call.
2. Listen for a dial tone. Even if you don't hear one wait until you do. Hanging up results in network delays and slows the system. Hang up only when you hear a busy signal.
3. Stay on the line even if you dialed by accident. A hang up indicates possible trouble for the caller. Tell the dispatcher you made a mistake.
4. Speak loud and clear. Give your name. Remain calm. This is a critical time and your information is vital, possibly saving someone's life.
5. Be brief with a description of the problem. Tell them what you are reporting, an accident, fire, medical emergency or crime in progress.
6. Wait on the phone if you are transferred to another agency.
7. Know your location. Make mental notes of exit names, landmarks and buildings if you are in an unfamiliar area.
8. Answer all questions and don't hang up until told. The dispatcher prioritizes calls according to the emergency.
9. Observe your own situation if the 911 call is for your safety. Sometimes a person can't answer fully but only with a yes or no. This is common with physical abuse calls where the caller is in danger. The dispatcher is trained to know if this is the case.