Frequently Asked Questions

9-1-1 is the universal emergency telephone number that you can dial 24-hours a day for police, fire, or emergency medical service.

Dial 9-1-1 immediately when life or property is in imminent danger. Don’t wait for someone else to make the call!

9-1-1 is a free call and can be dialed from any phone.

Your 9-1-1 call will be answered by a 9-1-1 telecommunicator who is trained in handling 9-1-1 telephone calls. The 9-1-1 telecommunicators are trained to ask questions to help determine the appropriate agencies to respond to the emergency.

In some locations, such as office buildings, it may be necessary to dial an access number (usually the digit 9) to get an outside line before you can dial 9-1-1.

Remain calm. Speak clearly. Provide the 9-1-1 telecommunicator with the following information:

1. Exactly what the problem is
2. Where the problem is
3. The phone number you are calling from
4. Your address and name, if requested

Please stay on the telephone. Answer the telecommunicator’s questions and follow any instructions you may be given.