Do you think that when a 911 emergency happens, there’s likely to be confusion, uncertainty, and fear?
You never know when that sudden turn of fate will strike, forcing you to take action in a situation that could be life or death.
Before you pick up the phone to make 911 calls for the emergency services, it’s best to be prepared.
Whether you are in Great Britain facing a 999 emergency, in Europe preparing to dial the phone for a 112 emergency, or caught up in a sudden 911 emergency in America, here are ten things you should expect so that you will know exactly what to do.
#1: Know Contact Information for the Emergency Services
When making 911 calls, the emergency services dispatcher is going to need important details about the situation. Top of the list will be:
- Your name
- Your phone number
- Your address
To be ready in the event of any type of call for help, including a 112 emergency or a 999 emergency, post a card by the phone which includes all pertinent information.
This is a good rule of thumb, whether it is in a home or business.
Always include special instructions about dialing, such as entering 9 and # first before outgoing calls can be made.
#2: Know the Proper Emergency Number
If you are in the United States, 911 calls mean dialing 911 for a 911 emergency.
Consider it a 999 emergency in Great Britain.
Throughout Europe, it will be a 112 emergency.
If you are going to be traveling overseas, learn the emergency contact numbers before you go.
The same can be said if your child is planning on being a global traveller.
#3: Try to Find a Land Line to Aide the Emergency Services
A land line is the best method of communication for a 911 emergency.
Responders for that locale will be dispatched promptly.
When you use a cellular phone, the call will need to get routed to the proper authorities.
If you have no other option besides a cell phone, use it and be clear with directions.
#4: Know About any Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Know the details about any health problems in the household.
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Severe allergies, high blood pressure, prior incidents of stroke, heart problems, asthma, diabetes, and cancer name only a few possible conditions that emergency services should be aware of when responding.
#5: Plan on Staying Calm
No matter how difficult it is to make 911 calls, you need keep yourself under control.
You will probably be anxious and upset, but a calm demeanor is absolutely essential.
Keep yourself in control when making an emergency call.
#6: Plan on Being Polite to Emergency Services Personnel
This is not a time to be rude.
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In the event of a life-threatening emergency, the person on the other end of a 911 call is your connection to emergency services.
Nothing gives you permission to be disrespectful to people who only want to assist you.
#7: Plan on Being Patient
You are going to need to wait until first responders arrive.
Regardless of how long that delay may be, do not become outraged or irrational.
#8: Be a Good Listener
You will need to listen carefully to instructions.
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Do what you are told by a dispatcher who has been trained to answer your questions.
The 911 emergency operator can also give you first aid tips that could save a life.
#9: Prepare the House
Unlock doors, keep lights on, and lock pets away.
If possible, have someone waiting outside for responders.
#10: Be Positive to the Emergency Services Dispatcher
Expect the best. Show a positive attitude to the victim, rescuers, and for yourself. You need to wear a brave face and hopefully all will be well.
Over to You
I want to make sure that I’m ready for any emergency. It makes sense that being prepared with the proper information when calling emergency services would be important. That seems like a good way to ensure that they can get to the scene as quickly as possible.