Why do Telecommunicators ask so many questions when I call 911?

Telecommunicators are trained to get as much information as possible. Questions are asked to obtain details related to your emergency. Depending on the nature of the call questions may be asked in order to help provide the caller with first aid instructions, life and personal safety instructions, the severity of injury, locations, people/property involved, etc. The information provided by callers will assist the responders in determining what they will need in order to keep others safe and out of harm’s way. Telecommunicators are trained to multi-task and will often be dispatching emergency response units while talking to you.

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1. How do I report a crime, accident or suspicious activity?
2. Can I call 911 from a pay phone?
3. Can someone who does not speak English call 911?
4. What if I am hearing impaired?
5. How does the 911 Telecommunicator know my address?
6. What should I do if I have been the victim of a crime?
7. Should I report suspicious activity that I observe?
8. When should I call 911?
9. What are some examples of when not to call 911?
10. What do I do if I accidently dialed 911?
11. What information should I have ready when calling 911?
12. What is 911?
13. What is Enhanced 911?
14. What happens if I don't know my exact location when I call 911?
15. Why do Telecommunicators ask so many questions when I call 911?
16. Why does my cell phone call 911 by accident?