Are dispatchers also police officers?
- Dispatchers are not police officers and do not give out legal advice or information related to police incidents
Can a disconnected cell phone call 911?
- A cell phone that has no service can still make a 911 call. However it is important to remain on the line and provide all necessary information to the dispatcher. The dispatcher has no way to call you back if you become disconnected.
Why do I have to give my location, doesn’t the caller ID show that?
- Giving the address is probably the single most important thing you can do when calling 9-1-1. The address database for wireline phones is maintained by the phone company and is not always up to date. Wireless calls depend on GPS technology that only gives an approximate location of the caller. Always give your exact location.
When I call 9-1-1 from my cell phone who answers my call?
- 9-1-1 Calls from a cell phone are routed according the cell tower your call is processed through. It is very possible to be routed to a jurisdiction that has to transfer your call. All the more reason to know where you are when you call.
When should I call 9-1-1?
- 9-1-1 is to be used only in an emergency. Calling 9-1-1 when it is not an emergency could delay our response to someone who has a real emergency.
What should I do if I call 9-1-1 by mistake?
- Remain on the line, explain that you just called by mistake. The dispatcher will still send an officer to ensure you are ok.