What can I do to expedite 911 services?
1. Know the address or intersection where assistance is needed. 2. Do not hang up the phone after you dial 9-1-1. Please wait until you have spoken to an operator. 3. Only call 9-1-1 for life threatening emergencies. 4. For non life threatening emergencies call (727) 847-8102.
Why does the 9-1-1 operator ask so many questions?
The questions are asked to determine the type of emergency and appropriate response. The more questions we ask, the more information we can pass on to responders and the better prepared they will be.
When the 9-1-1 operator is asking questions, is help being sent?
Once a call taker determines the type of emergency, a call is generated in our Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system and is routed immediately to a dispatcher. Delays may occur if a caller cannot give an accurate address or if a caller is not cooperative enough to provide basic information so that the call-taker can properly input the call.
What happens when you call 9-1-1?
When a 9-1-1 call is received by Public Safety Communications, an Emergency Communications Officer triages the call using a state-of-the-art computerized dispatch protocol from the International Academy of Emergency Dispatch to ensure an appropriate response to each call for service.
The call is then dispatched by the appropriate emergency dispatcher, and they send the closest Deputy, Paramedic, and/or Firefighter. While the emergency dispatcher is sending first responders, the Emergency Communications Officer is simultaneously gathering information that is vital for the first responders.
Note: First responders are already on their way while the Emergency Communications Officer is asking these questions!
