Guidelines for Calling 9-1-1

Although most 9-1-1 calls are now traced, it's still important for your children to have your street address and phone number memorized. Sharing that information with the operator enables emergency workers to arrive and begin treatment more quickly. Make sure your children know that even though they shouldn't give personal information to strangers, it's okay to trust the 9-1-1 operator.

When to Call 9-1-1

Be a good citizen and only call 9-1-1 for real emergencies, such as:

• If someone is very sick or hurt badly or unconscious
• If there is a fire
• If someone is breaking in your house

Making the Call

If someone needs help, call 9-1-1.

1. To get started, say: My name is _____ and I have an emergency. My address is _____.

2. Then the operator will talk. Stay calm and answer the operator’s questions. Stay on the phone. Do not hang up until the operator tells you to.

When Not to Call 9-1-1

In most communities, dialing 9-1-1 connects you to emergency medical help, the police and the fire department. These are the people who can save lives. If you call for a silly reason, you might keep them from helping someone who really needs their help. Calling 9-1-1 is very serious; calling 9-1-1 as a joke is considered a crime.