It seems pretty obvious, doesn’t it? Isn’t it as easy as picking up a phone and pressing the buttons 9, 1 and 1? Turns out there’s more to know about making that phone call.
First of all, only call 911 if you have a true emergency. If you need information, you can dial 411. If you have medical questions, call your doctor as a first step. If you have medications that need refilling, that’s best done by calling your pharmacy. None of these are true emergencies. True emergencies are when a situation is beyond your control, and best managed by a first responder, like chest pain, a house fire, etc.
This will save precious seconds in an emergency.
Do you have a mobile phone? We hope you do. They are not only convenient, but an excellent safety device. Having a way to communicate with your family, caregiver, or emergency help at all times, no matter where you are, is important. And safe! If you get a mobile phone that has a GPS tracking feature, emergency help can find you, even if you can’t communicate on your mobile device.
But there is one caveat. Keep in mind, if you call 911 from your mobile phone, most 911 dispatchers can’t triangulate your position on a mobile phone. If you call on a landline in Los Angeles, the city has reverse 911, which means the address of that landline is immediately known to the dispatch center. Using your mobile means you have to TELL the dispatcher where you are and specifically as you can. This is where situational awareness is so crucial. Always know where you are, and be aware of the exact address, or a landmark that will help first responders find you.