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Using 9-1-1

Help Us Help You:

Your Guide to Calling 9-1-1 Emergency Services

9-1-1 NEEDS TO KNOW WHERE TO GO

  • When calling 9-1-1, one of the first things you’ll be asked to provide is the location of the emergency you’re reporting. 
  • The call taker may not automatically know your location or may ask you to confirm it.  
  • Make sure you provide as much detail on your location as possible, such as landmarks, cross streets and mileposts.

KNOW YOUR CELL WELL

  • The current 9-1-1 system is designed for voice communications only. 
  • Texting 9-1-1 is not an option in most at this time; you must dial 9-1-1 and speak with a call taker. 
  • Pull over when driving, if possible. This reduces the chance of a dropped call. 
  • Lock your keypad when you’re not using your phone, so 9-1-1 isn’t dialed by mistake. For the same reason, don’t put 9-1-1 on speed dial. 
  • Do not give old phones to children as toys. A wireless phone with no active service can still call 9-1-1. 
  • If you accidentally call 9-1-1, stay on the line and tell the call taker that you do not have an emergency.  
  • Calling 9-1-1 from a cell phone is always free and it is never necessary to dial an area code.

9-1-1 IS FOR EMERGENCY USE ONLY

  • Call 9-1-1 for emergencies only. It is appropriate to call 9-1-1 when you need to save a life, stop a crime or report a fire. 
  • 9-1-1 is the right number to call in an emergency when a prompt response is needed. 
  • If you are not sure you have an emergency to report, call 9-1-1 and let the call taker decide.

KNOW HOW TO USE 9-1-1 WITH THE PHONE YOU OWN

  • Before you need help in an emergency, be sure to understand how the type of phone you use affects your call to 9-1-1. It is important to know the capabilities of the device you are using (landline, cellular, VoIP).  
  • Cell phones may not automatically tell 9-1-1 where you are so be prepared to provide detailed information about your location.

REMAIN CALM, BE PREPARED

  • Try to stay calm, give information and follow all instructions. 
  • Professional call-takers are trained to get information from you.
  • Listen carefully and answer as concisely as possible. 
  • Remember that even if the dispatcher is still asking questions or giving instructions, help is on the way.

HELP 9-1-1 HELP YOU

  • The more you know what to expect when you call 9-1-1, the faster 9-1-1 can get you the help you need. 
  • You can save a life! Follow all instructions the 9-1-1 call taker gives you, and don’t hang up until the call taker does. If you get cut off, call back and explain that you were cut off.
Circular cartoon-style sticker with a smiling red rotary phone character in the center. The text around it reads: “IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 911” in blue and red capital letters.

Red and white emergency sign with the word “EMERGENCY” in red at the top, a blue graphic of a telephone handset in the middle, and large blue numbers “911” prominently displayed at the bottom.

Logo for Greenup County, Kentucky’s E911 service. The text “E911” is overlaid on a green silhouette of the county with the words “POLICE FIRE EMS 911” written across the middle. Beside it reads: “GREENUP COUNTY Kentucky” in bold white letters on a dark blue background.