County to educate public on using 911

Published 10:36 pm Saturday, April 19, 2008

Some Whitfield County 911 employees are on a mission to educate the public about department operations. A Community Awareness Team will begin to develop an education program for adults and children which will better explain the process of 911.

The team will also circulate important information via the media. The focus is when to call 911 and how to report an emergency.

Officials say 911 should only be used to report an emergency such as a crime in progress, a fire or when someone is in need of an ambulance. The call is answered at the communications center, which is located at 804 Professional Blvd., by a trained and professional telecommunicator. When the call is answered, the address and telephone number should automatically be displayed to the telecommunicator, but keep in mind this information should always be verified to ensure response to the correct location. If dialing from a cell phone, the caller will have to verify the address where there’s an emergency.

When reporting an emergency, allow the telecommunicator to get certain information. The caller should briefly describe the emergency. For example, “I am reporting a brush fire”; “I need to report a reckless driver” or “I think I am having a heart attack.” Allow the telecommunicator to ask questions and remember they are trained to ask the proper questions.

Calmness and patience are key when calling 911. Speak clearly to the telecommunicator. Keep in mind that police, fire or EMS personnel are most likely being dispatched while the caller is on the line. Telecommunicators are not delaying help by asking questions, they are just trying to improve the response. Callers need to be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions the telecommunicator may have throughout the call.