What to Say When You Call 911

Sure, you know the number, but do you remember what to say and do? Most of us American’s were children when we were taught this, so here’s a good refresher for what to say and do when you call 911.

What to say and do when you call 911

In short, give the 911 operator as much information as you can and do what they tell you to do.

From the official 911 site, 911.gov:

“When you call 911, be prepared to answer the call-taker's questions, which may include:

The location of the emergency, including the street address

The phone number you are calling from

The nature of the emergency

Details about the emergency, such as a physical description of a person who may have committed a crime, a description of any fire that may be burning, or a description of injuries or symptoms being experienced by a person having a medical emergency

These questions will help the 911 operator get you the exact help you need as quickly as possible, and most operators will give you instructions on what to do until help arrives. It is very important that you follow these instructions not only to aid in the emergency, but to keep you (and any others involved) safe from harm and potential criminal and civil liability.

Your ability to think clearly and act safely and effectively is usually diminished in times of extreme stress, so let the 911 operators and other emergency services professionals who are trained to manage intense situations do their jobs, and follow their instructions to the best of your ability.

What Should I Do If I Accidentally Call 911?

Don’t hang up. That might make the operator think there is an emergency. Simply tell them that you have dialed 911 by mistake and follow their direction from there.

Teaching Kids How to Call 911

Children should also be taught how (and when) to contact 911 as early as possible, on any device.

See the official 911 for Kids page for helpful resources

Good to Know About 911

• 911 call centers are managed by local and state government agencies including fire departments, law enforcement, emergency management agencies, and Information Technology (IT) services.

• Their authority and responsibilities also vary from location to location, so researchyour local organization.