Using the 9-1-1 System

What is 9-1-1 ?

9-1-1 is the Emergency number for Spokane.  You can call this number 24 hours a day for police, fire or emergency medical services.  It can save you valuable time in an emergency.  We want you to know how and when to call 9-1-1 in case you have an emergency.
 

When to call 9-1-1

√  When police, fire and medical response is needed.
√  When you see fire or smoke.
√  When life and/or property are in danger.
√  When a crime is being committed.
√  When an ambulance is necessary.
 

Anyone can call 9-1-1

√  Children should be taught to call 9-1-1 for police, fire or medical help.
√  The sight-impaired can use the digits, 9-1-1 on the telephone, or use a preprogrammed speed dial button.
√  The hearing-impaired can use a TDD machine.
 

How to call 9-1-1

√  To call 9-1-1 from a home phone or a simple business phone, pick up the phone and press the numbers, 9-1-1.
√  To call 9-1-1 from a Centrex or PBX business extension, obtain an outside line (usually with "9"), and then press the numbers, 9-1-1.
√  To call 9-1-1 from a pay phone, no money is needed; simply press the numbers 9-1-1.
√  To call 9-1-1 from a cellular phone or mobile phone, press the numbers 9-1-1. No location information will be displayed.
 

How do I use 9-1-1

√  Dial 9-1-1 as described above.
√  Remain calm. Don't get excited. Speak clearly when the dispatcher answers.
√  Tell the 9-1-1 dispatcher:
√  What your name is.
√  Where the location is
√  What type of emergency it is.
√  The 9-1-1 dispatcher will then ask you more questions. Provide the answers as best you can.
√  Stay on the telephone until the dispatcher says it is okay to hang up.
 

Remember

√  Don't call 9-1-1 to ask questions or to play a joke.
√  Post your address and phone number by each telephone so anyone will be able to give the vital information needed for a quick response.
√  Your house number needs to be visible from the street.