Frequently Asked Questions

  • When is it okay to dial 9-1-1?
    Don’t hesitate to dial 9-1-1 in case of an emergency where you need law enforcement, the fire department, or an ambulance.  If you are not sure if it is an emergency, go ahead and dial 9-1-1. The 9-1-1 call taker can assist you in determining if you need emergency assistance.
  • When should you not dial 9-1-1?
    Please do not dial 9-1-1 for general information, e.g., why trash pickup is late.  Also, you should never dial 9-1-1 for a prank.
  • Why does the 9-1-1 call taker ask me my address/location?
    If you are calling 9-1-1 from a cell phone, the information did not come up and they need it to get you help.  If you are calling on a landline phone, they are making sure that the information that came up is correct.  VoIP (internet) phones also need to verify that their information is correct.
  • What happens when the caller doesn’t speak English and they dial 9-1-1?
    Our 9-1-1 call takers have the ability to get an interpreter service on the line with you.
  • Any special instructions for hearing-impaired callers that dial 9-1-1?
    If the caller has a teletypewriter (TTY) or telecommunications device (TTD) they may use it to dial  9-1-1.  When they connect to 9-1-1 they should tap a few of their TTY/TTD keys so that the 9-1-1 call taker will understand they are on the line.