Understanding the 911 System and How It Works

Before diving into when to call, it's crucial to understand what happens when you dial those three digits and how to use the system effectively.

What Happens When You Call 911:

Immediate Response Chain:

1. Call connects to dispatch center 2. Dispatcher assesses situation 3. Appropriate resources dispatched 4. Pre-arrival instructions given 5. Updates relayed to responders 6. Continuous monitoring until arrival

Information Dispatchers Need:

- Exact location (address, landmarks) - Nature of emergency - Number of people involved - Conscious/breathing status - Any immediate dangers - Callback number

Types of Response:

- Priority 1: Lights and sirens, immediate - Priority 2: Urgent but stable - Priority 3: Non-urgent transport - Response time varies: 4-15 minutes average

> Quick Reference Box: > - 240 million 911 calls annually in US > - Average response time: 7 minutes urban, 14 minutes rural > - 80% of calls now from cell phones > - Text-to-911 available in many areas > - Abuse of 911 is criminal offense

How to Call 911 Effectively:

Before You Call:

- Know your exact location - Stay calm - Have medication list ready if possible - Send someone to meet responders - Turn on outside lights - Secure pets

During the Call:

- Speak clearly and calmly - Answer questions directly - Don't hang up unless told - Follow all instructions - Let dispatcher guide conversation - Stay on line until help arrives

Cell Phone Considerations:

- May connect to wrong jurisdiction - Provide exact location - GPS not always accurate - Know nearest cross streets - Consider landline if available

Common Dispatch Questions:

1. "What's the address of the emergency?" 2. "What's the phone number you're calling from?" 3. "Tell me exactly what happened." 4. "Is the patient conscious?" 5. "Is the patient breathing normally?" 6. "How old is the patient?"