April is a big month for 9-1-1. Not only do 9-1-1 educators
have the opportunity to spread emergency services information all month long,
but they also have the opportunity to show major appreciation to
telecommunicators during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 10-16, 2016).
For those of you who do not know, telecommunicators, also
known as call-takers or dispatchers, are individuals who work for an emergency
service provider (usually 9-1-1) and are qualified to answer incoming emergency
telephone calls and provide for the appropriate emergency response. They work incredibly
hard each and every day answering tough calls in an effort to get the public
whatever emergency service they need.
In 1991, Congress recognized their efforts and created a
week distinguishing who they are and the importance they play in our society. Then,
in 2008, the House of Representatives passed a resolution to increase national
awareness about the importance and appropriate use of 9-1-1. By creating a
month dedicated to 9-1-1 education, Congress is able to encourage annual public
awareness events, public advertising campaigns, target outreach activities and
provide training for parents and teachers.
Below, we have compiled some important messages and current
issues that the public should be more aware of so that they can get the most
out of 9-1-1 services.
Call
if You Can, Text if You Can’t: Many have the misconception
that you can text 9-1-1 for help. We can do everything else through text, so
why not contact 9-1-1 this way too? Unfortunately that is not the case.
Luckily, many agencies are working hard to make this available across the
United States. While more and more entities are incorporating text to 9-1-1, there
is only still a small percentage of the country that has it available. If you
see a sign or information in your region promoting that you can text to 9-1-1,
then you can guarantee it is available. But if you do not, then please assume
you can’t text to 9-1-1 and please call if you need help. Keep in mind that if
you do text to 9-1-1 and it is NOT available in your area, you will receive a
bounce back message instructing you to please call 9-1-1 for help.
Know
Your Location: Many people have smart phones these days. And
on these smart phones we have maps that show us where we are, so it doesn’t
seem farfetched to think that if we have GPS in our phone, then 9-1-1 should be
able to find us when we call. This is actually not the case. When you call 9-1-1 from a cell phone/smart phone,
dispatchers are only able to see approximately where you are and not
specifically where you are located. Remember to always be aware and know your
location. Look for mile markers, landmarks, cross streets and addresses on
buildings. This information could potentially save your life or another life!
Stay
Calm and Ready to Listen: When we call 9-1-1, it is usually for an
emergency and this can be a stressful situation. But it is imperative that you try
your best to stay calm and listen to the call-taker’s questions so that they
can properly help you. A lot of people get confused when the call-taker is
asking a lot of questions. They are panicking and want help right away. Trust
us- the call-taker gets it and the reason they are asking questions is so that
they can help you to the best of their ability. And help is usually always on
the way already even while the call-taker is still asking questions.
As always, do not forget that 9-1-1 is for emergency use
only and should never be abused or used for fun. It helps save lives and is an
important tool in helping our society to get the aid they need. Call 9-1-1 when
you or someone else’s life is in danger, or if there is a crime or fire
occurring. We are here when you need us. For more information on 9-1-1
education, please visit www.csec.texas.gov.
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