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.