In
case of an emergency do you know how to contact
:
POLICE-FIRE-AMBULANCE?
In North America a telephone system was designed to obtain a rapid response for an emergency. The phone number is 9-1-1 and when called it coordinates a response between Police, Fire and Ambulance to deal with the situation. This number is to be used for any life threatening situation that requires an immediate response by one of the Emergency Services to save life or prevent serious harm to anyone.
The 911 dispatcher will state on the phone: Police, Fire, and Ambulance. They will also ask you what city you are calling from. Once it has been determined which Emergency Service you need, you will be transferred to that service. When ever possible please use a landline phone to call 9-1-1 and this will ensure that the address and phone number that your calling from will appear on the dispatcher’s computer screen in case you are disconnected or are unable to speak to the dispatcher. If you only have a cell phone at your disposal, you can also reach the emergency dispatcher from the cell phone. The dispatcher will confirm with you if help is required at your location or at another location.
You will also be asked a series of questions to assist the responding Emergency Services personnel so try and speak slowly and clearly and provide as much information as possible. It is ok to say you don’t know the answer to a question. If a translator is required, all efforts will be made to attempt to locate someone who speaks your language. Please stay on the line because regardless of the language difficulties that sometimes arise, the location as to where you’re phoning from is identified to the dispatcher and help is on the way.
If you are speaking to the Emergency Medical Service dispatcher she will ask you “Is the patient awake and able to speak?” “Are they breathing normally?” “Are they having any difficulty breathing?” “Are they bleeding?” “Is it controlled?” “What has happened?”
The Fire Departments dispatcher will ask you “What is the location of the fire?” “What is on fire?” “Is it a house?” “How many people are in the house?” “What room(s) are they in?” ALWAYS GET OUT FIRST!-and never call from the same location as the fire.
The Police dispatcher will ask you: “Are you in danger?” “What is your emergency?” “Is there anyone with you that can help?” Please stay on the line, and follow instructions! While you wait: ensure your own safety is not at risk, use other people to help you with the emergency and help Police/Fire/Ambulance find you.
When the Emergency Services arrive they have the right to entry your home or business. Designate a person to wait for the Emergency Services and take them back to you. At night, turn on your lights, ALL THE LIGHTS, so they can find you quickly. Time is critical in saving a life.
The 9-1-1 number is for TRUE EMERGENCIES, and it is against the law to call 9-1-1 as a prank. False calls that tie up the 9-1-1 lines hinder the rapid response to those who are in real need of the Emergency Services. Remember, the Police, Fire and Ambulance are there to help you or your loved ones. If you have any further questions regarding the use of the 9-1-1 emergency number, contact your local police by way of their regular police phone number, not the 9-1-1 number.
Earl Fletcher
