INFORMATION YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE 9-1-1 SYSTEM
 

"9-1-1, Where's the emergency?"

***9-1-1 IS USED FOR LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCIES ONLY!!!***

 ***9-1-1 IS USED TO REPORT MEDICAL, FIRE OR POLICE EMERGENCIES ONLY!!!***

When talking to the 9-1-1 dispatcher, remain as calm as possible and speak so the dispatcher can understand what is being said to obtain the information needed to dispatch the call. LISTEN TO THE DISPATCHERS INSTRUCTIONS!!! ALWAYS GIVE YOUR LOCATION FIRST!!!

 When the dispatchers ask the “Who”, “What”, “Where”, and “When” questions, please be patient even though it might seem like time is being delayed. These questions are part of obtaining the proper information that is needed to dispatch the call. The dispatchers are responsible to determine if the scene is safe for all units going to the call.

Once the dispatcher obtains all the necessary information they might keep you on the phone while they dispatch the officers, the rescue squad and/or the fire department.

If 9-1-1 is dialed in error, DO NOT HANG UP!!!! Stay on the line and tell the dispatcher it was a mistake. If there is a 9-1-1 hang up call, the dispatcher will attempt to call the number back that appeared on the screen to confirm if everything is fine. If they do not speak with anyone on  the callback, officers will be sent to the location the call came from. 

When someone dials 9-1-1, information appears on the ANI/ALI screen which includes the phone number, name, address, the township, the police department, fire department, and rescue squad that should be sent to that location. If you call from a cell phone, the number appears and the 9-1-1 tower location the cell phone is hitting.

  ***REMINDER!!!***

If a FALSE 9-1-1 call is made, those caught making the call can and will be prosecuted. It is against the law to make false 9-1-1 phone calls, NJ Criminal Law, NJSA 2c:33-3.

Just remember, we know where the call is coming from when your information appears on the screen. 

Want to teach your kids how to properly use 9-1-1?
Click below and print out the 9-1-1 Coloring and Activity Book.