9-1-1 Calls

Introduction
Resources To Use
How-To

Introduction
Knowing how and when to use 9-1-1, the emergency dispatch system, is an important part of any family’s safety plan.

If your children can dial a phone and are old enough to learn and say their address and phone number, they should know how to call 9-1-1. In a real emergency, a child who has practiced the call and knows what to say and do can handle the situation calmly and safely.

An important lesson for all children (and adults) is when NOT to use the 9-1-1 system. It should NEVER be called as a joke or just to test it out. In many states, people who make false 9-1-1 calls can be fined or go to jail! Make sure everybody in the family knows when they should be using 9-1-1 and what other numbers they can call to report a problem that is NOT an emergency.

Resources To Use
• 911 Emergency! section of the Command Center, featuring a simulated call
• 911 Download

How-To
• Listen to the 911 Emergency! in the Command Center with your children.

•Explain to them that these are actors teaching you how to make a 9-1-1 call.

• Use the information in the Command Center (911 Emergency!). Explain when people should NOT call 9-1-1. If you tie up the line with a false call or something that is not an emergency, somebody who really needs help may not get it in time.

• Practice 9-1-1 calls with family members. One person is the operator; another is the caller. Make sure the caller gives all the important information.

• Talk about who children CAN call if there is a problem that is NOT an emergency. Work with them to make a list (911 Download) of people to call for different situations:
- the power or electricity goes out
- the dog is lost
- the cat gets stuck in a tree
- they need directions

Post that list of numbers in your home where everybone can find it when they need it.