Dialing 9-1-1

Know How to Dial 9-1-1 with the Phone You Own

For All Phones

  • 9-1-1 is for emergencies or potential emergencies only. An emergency is a threat to life or property.  Use the non-emergency number for your local police or sheriff’s department for questions and non emergency matters.
  • Post your address and phone number near each phone in your home. Visitors, babysitters and even family members may need to relay this information in a stressful situation. Try to stay calm.
  • Dial 9-1-1.

  • Give the 9-1-1 call taker the location of your emergency and your phone number.  Describe what type of help is needed (police, fire, ambulance).

  • Stay on the line and answer the call takers questions.

  • Don’t hang up until the call is completed.

Inactive or Donated Cell Phones
9-1-1 calls can be places from an inactive or donated cell phone (one without a service plan).
The 9-1-1 system may not receive location Information. Give the call taker your location immediately.
Call 9-1-1 back immediately if you call is dropped because inactive cell phones cannot receive any incoming calls. Including those from a 9-1-1 call taker.

Kids Cell Phones
Some phones marketed to children have a non traditional dialing pad. An adult may need to program the phone to dial 9-1-1.  Teach your children to dial 9-1-1 only in an emergency.  Help you children understand what an emergency is by providing examples.  Help your children learn their address and phone number.