How to Use 911

Director:  Dave Costin

It is important to know how to properly utilize your 911 system in Putnam County. First, never dial 911 unless you are reporting an "emergency". An emergency is any situation in which minutes or even seconds are critical to prevent further physical harm or damage to property. Examples of emergency situations are fires, medical problems, and crimes in progress. ITS OK TO BE WRONG--we would rather your call on behalf of caution than cause further harm. IF IN DOUBT, CALL 911.

When you dial 911, be prepared to briefly explain what your emergency is and where it is. Patiently answer all of the operator's questions as your answers will determine whom he/she sends and how. TRY TO BE CALM. It is often difficult for the operator to understand you if you are excited--this takes up precious time. Remember that time often seems slowed down in a crisis and a very few minutes may seem like hours. BE FACTUAL. Give locations as addresses; be prepared to describe persons, their symptoms, and vehicles. GIVE CALL BACK NUMBERS.

Teach children to dial 911. Call 653-5115 or 795-4791 to see if you can test dial 911 at that time (remember that you do not want to interfere with actual emergencies or unduly tie up the 911 system). If the operator gives you the ok, then dial it. Check to see if the operator got your correct phone number and address and any other information that wish displayed. IF YOU WANT TO SUPPLY INFORMATION ON YOUR 911 SCREEN then ask to have a 911 questionnaire card to sent to you that you can completed and mail back. FOR VERY YOUNG CHILDREN, you can put red coloring around the "9" on your phone and blue around the "1" teaching the child to dial red-blue-blue if they have an emergency.