Cell Phone A-B-Cs for 9-1-1 Calls

From Washington State EMD

Cell phones are an important public safety tool, but they also create challenges for public safety and emergency responders.  Since 9-1-1 calls made on cell phones may not automatically provide the 9-1-1 operator your phone number and approximate location, be ready to provide this critical information.

If you are in an area where your cell phone is searching or scanning for a signal, or there is no signal, your 9-1-1 call may not go through.  If this happens, either move for a better signal or find the nearest telephone and call for help.

It is important for cell phone users calling 9-1-1 to remember some basic ABCs:

*  Always be AWARE of your surroundings.  Tell the 9-1-1 operator the location of the emergency.  Provide landmarks such as cross streets and mileposts.

*  BE PREPARED.  Memorize the cell phone number so it can be readily given to the 9-1-1 operator when asked.

*  Stay CONNECTED.  Do not hang up until told to do so.  If you should get disconnected, call the 9-1-1 operator back.