CALLING 911

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When should I call 9-1-1?

• To save a Life

• To stop a Crime

• to report a Fire

 

In any police, fire, or ambulance emergency, 9-1-1 should be your first call.

 

9-1-1 CALLING TIPS

• Stay calm and speak clearly.

• Listen carefully and answer all of the dispatcher’s questions the best you can.

• If possible, do not hang up until the dispatcher has obtained all the needed information.

 

SILENT CALL PROCEDURE
If you cannot speak, use your home phone’s keypad when the dispatcher answers:

• Press 1 for Police

• Press 2 for Fire Department

• Press 3 if you need an Ambulance

 

CORDED BACKUP
Cordless phones will not work during power outages, so always keep a corded phone in your home in case of emergency.

 

CELL PHONES
If you are calling from a cell phone, please provide as much information to the dispatcher as possible. New technology enables dispatchers to determine your phone number’s location within a couple of hundred yards. However, the more information you can give, the better.

 

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• Medical Alert devices do not provide a direct connection with your local police, fire or ambulance personnel. If immediate help is needed and a phone is within your reach, call 9-1-1.

• TDD/TTY users should call 9-1-1 directly.

• Massachusetts residents with disabilities may qualify for specialized telephones and accessories free of charge or at a reduced rate. Please visit www.massedp.com or call 1-800-300-5658 V/TTY for more information.