What questions will the dispatcher ask me when I call 911?
WHERE? WHAT? WHEN? WHO? WHY? HOW? WEAPONS?

Dispatchers ask a standard set of questions to prioritize your call and determine the response you need. After the dispatcher verifies the location with you, a response is already on the way. The dispatcher knows the address you are calling from, but does not know the address where you need help sent to until you verify that address. You must then answer the additional questions to further help the law enforcement officers, the fire department or the paramedics. The dispatcher relays the pertinent information by radio to the responding units prior to their arrival at the scene. This increases the chances of survival of a medical patient or injured person or the prevention of a crime and/or the apprehension of a suspect.

Show All Answers

1. When do I dial 911? What is an emergency?
2. What if I dial 911 by mistake?
3. What if I am calling from a cellular phone?
4. What questions will the dispatcher ask me when I call 911?
5. Is toll-free and TDD/TTY access available?