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The 9-1-1 Emergency System makes an important
difference in our community everyday. It is the first source of help in times of crisis.
When used properly, it can save
seconds which can save lives. Dialing 9-1-1 is the fastest, easiest way to
communicate with local police, fire, and medical services during an emergency.
Simply wait for the dial tone on your telephone, cellular phone or public telephone,
then dialing 9-1-1. No money is needed for calling 9-1-1 from a pay
phone. If there is an emergency, you can just pick up a pay phone, wait for a dial tone,
and dial 9-1-1 without depositing a coin.
When to Dial 9-1-1
If an emergency situation arises -- a crime, a
fire, a serious injury or illness -- ask yourself whether police, fire department or
medical assistance is needed right now to protect life or property. If YES, then
immediately dial 9-1-1 and advise the 9-1-1 operator of what has happened or is happening.
If you're not sure, dial 9-1-1; and the operator will make the final
determination.
If the 9-1-1 system receives several calls at the
same time, emergency services handle these multiple calls on a priority basis. The most
serious emergency will be handled first.
When Calling 9-1-1
- Stay calm. Give your name, location, and nature of
the emergency.
- Listen carefully to the 9-1-1 operator.
- Answer the 9-1-1 operator's questions as
accurately as possible. Speak clearly and slowly.
- Do exactly as the 9-1-1 operator tells you during
the course of the call.
- Never hang up on the 9-1-1 operator until you are
told to do so. If you hang up and redial, your call will go to the end of the line of
people waiting for service.
Non-Emergency Situations
Do not dial 9-1-1 for non-emergency situations such as noisy neighbors or stolen hub
cap. Use the non-emergency Police Department number
(847-234-2601), never 9-1-1. Never tell a 9-1-1 operator that a situation is
more serious than it really is. It is against the law to intentionally and knowingly give
false information to the police or emergency services. Abuse of 9-1-1 may delay someone
else's access to emergency assistance.
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