When
you call our Public Safety Dispatch Center on 9-1-1 you must not only tell
specifically what and where the emergency is but certain other information in
order that help can be provided.
(Check this
FAQ to find out when to call 91-1) The call takers are trained and
required to ask questions that will get the information needed. Don't hang up
until the call taker tells you to. These questions are being asked for
the safety of the public and officers. The call taker is entering the
call into a computer and another dispatcher is sending officers. Often
with emergency or active calls the information is being dispatched while the
caller is still on the phone providing descriptions and other helpful
information. If the call is a medical emergency the call taker can provide
instructions which may help save a life while awaiting arrival of medical
personnel. Hanging up right away will not make the Police get dispatched
more quickly.
Information needed by the
call takers includes the exact location of an incident, the caller's name, phone
number, and location, descriptions of suspects, vehicles and/or weapons.
Descriptions of people include height, weight or build, age, sex, race, clothing
including hats, shirts or jackets, pants and shoes, and any other distinguishing
features (facial hair, glasses, etc.) Vehicle descriptions include the
approximate year, color, make, model, body style, and license plate when
available. Also important are types and numbers of weapons seen (or
implied) and direction that suspect(s) fled.
If you dial 9-1-1 from a
cellular phone in Connecticut the calls currently go to the closest State Police
Barracks. You will have to tell the State Police what town you are in so they
can transfer the call correctly.
