Public Education

What is 9-1-1?

9-1-1 is the three-digit number to call 24 hours a day for police, fire or medical emergency help.

When to call 9-1-1

• When police, fire or medical response is needed.
• When you see fire or smoke.
• When life and/or property are in danger.
• When a crime is being committed.
• When an ambulance is needed. 
• Don't hang up until the dispatcher tells you to.

What the 9-1-1 Operator Will Need to Know:

• Address of the emergency
• Phone number you are calling from
• Nature of the emergency
• Stay calm, speak clearly, be prepared to answer questions, receive instructions and stay on the phone until you are told to hang up!

Children: Make the Right Call to 9-1-1

• Know how and when to call 9-1-1.
• Only call for a real emergency. 
• For a fire, call 9-1-1 after you are safely out of the building.
• Remember that dispatchers are specially trained to help you. Answer their questions.
• Ask an emergency dispatcher to explain a question if you don't understand what they want to know. Don't just guess at an answer.
• Tell an adult right away if someone is hurt (even if you are afraid you may be blamed!)

Play It Safe So You Won't Need To Call 9-1-1

• Tell an adult if you see matches or lighters. Never play with matches.
• Wear a helmet and pads when riding a bike, skateboarding, or roller blading.
• Stop, look, and listen before you cross the street.
• Leave unfamiliar animals alone.