911 For Kids
When Should I call 9-1-1?
- 911 is for emergencies only
- It should never be used as a joke or prank
- You should call 911 when there is a serious "people" emergency
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When there is a REAL need for one of the following:
- There is a crime and you need the POLICE
- There is a fire and you need FIREFIGHTERS
- Someone is seriously injured or unconscious and you need an Ambulance and Emergency Medical Response
How do I dial 9-1-1?
On a landline or pay telephone
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What is a landline phone?
- Landline phones come in many different styles.
- The one thing that they have in common is that they must be plugged into a phone jack to operate.
- Most landline phones are push button, however older phones have dial pads.
- In addition there are many portable phones which may look a lot like a wireless phone.
- Why don’t you identify all the phones your family use and know if they are a landline phone or a wireless phone.
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What about pay phones?
- Pay phones are located in public places and have push buttons. Older ones have a dial.
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How to Dial
- Stay calm
- Make sure your know the exact location and address of the emergency.
- Pick up the receiver or turn on the phone and wait for the DIAL TONE
- Dial or press “9”, then “1” and then “1” again.
- Wait for the ring and the 9-1-1 Dispatcher will answer
On a wireless phone
Some of the other names people use for a wireless phone is celluar, mobile, or car phone.
- Remember a wireless phone is not the same as a portable phone you might have at home
- There are many different types of wireless phones
- Never practice calling 9-1-1 on a real phone
- Watch the video section: How to Dial 9-1-1
- Remember you don’t need any money to call 9-1-1 on any pay phone.
What do I say to 9-1-1?
- Stay calm, speak clearly and be prepared to give as much information as possible regarding the emergency when the Dispatcher asks you.
- Listen carefully to the Dispatchers questions and answer each question carefully.
- Remember the Dispatcher cannot see your hand or head gestures, signs or motions. So verbally answer all questions.
- The Dispatcher can only hear you, so answer all questions verbally.
- Do not hang up until the Dispatcher tells you it is OK to do so.
- Follow the instructions of the Dispatcher.
- Remember remain calm and follow Dispatcher’s instructions.
Last update:
February 17, 2016