Calling 911 For Emergencies |
By Vice President / Lieutenant Scot Best | |
September 24, 2024 | |
The number of 911 calls placed by people using wireless phones has significantly increased in recent years. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) estimates about 70% of 911 calls are placed from wireless phones, and that percentage is growing. As more people eliminate landline phones from their homes, it’s important to make sure that they adapt their emergency plans to allow for quick access to their mobile phones in the event of a fire. For many people, the ability to call 911 for help in an emergency is one of the main reasons they own a wireless phone. The prompt delivery of wireless 911 calls to local authorities is essential to promoting public safety. Minutes matter in the event of a fire. If a resident panics and is unable to locate or use the phone to report a fire that time gap could result in a loss of life or property. In an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately from any wired or wireless phone. An emergency is any situation that requires immediate assistance from the police, fire department or ambulance. Examples include: If you’re not sure whether the situation is a true emergency, officials recommend calling 911 and letting the call-taker determine whether you need emergency help. When you call 911, be prepared to answer the call-taker’s questions, which may include: Keep the following tips in mind to ensure that emergency responders can reach you and your loved ones quickly in the event of a fire or other emergency: Be prepared to follow any instructions the call-taker gives you. Many 911 centers can tell you exactly what to do to help in an emergency until help arrives, such as providing step-by-step instructions to aid someone who is choking, needs first aid, or CPR. Finally, do not hang up until the call-taker instructs you to. If you dial 911 by mistake, or if a child in your home dials 911 when no emergency exists, do not hang up. Emergency 911 officials may think that an emergency exists, and possibly send responders to your location. Instead, simply explain to the call-taker what happened. |
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