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Calling 911 - What to Do

When calling 911 in an emergency:

• Give the complete address where you need help.
• Tell the 911 operator what the problem is -- why you need help.
• Answer the operator's questions -- they must ask you certain questions to help the police or fire units responding to your emergency.
• Give the 911 operator your name.
• Remain calm and talk clearly.

Other things to know when you call 911:

• Give your complete address, including an apartment number or letter.
• Know if the street you live on runs north and south or east and west.
• Know what direction your home faces.
• Know the nearest intersection.
• Know how many houses your home is from the corner.
• Know the street behind you and in front of you.
• Let the operator control the conversation.
• Speak loud and clear, but do not scream.

Please do not call 911 and:

• Hang up - If you hang up before speaking to the 911 operator, they will call you back. instead say, "This is not an emergency, but..."
• Report that the power is out at your home, unless it is an emergency. Call your utility service provider.
• Ask for a weather report. Check the Internet instead. If your power is out, get a battery-powered radio and stay tuned to a local radio station.