911 is the emergency number for most of North America. You can use it to get the police, firefighters, or an ambulance.
Most of us don’t like to think about emergencies. But it’s good to be ready for them. If you know what to do, the emergency may be over sooner and do less damage.
Before you call 911, make sure there is a real emergency. Some people call 911 just to ask questions. This takes the operators away from people who really need help.
Also, make sure you know the address where help is needed. You should be able to say the house number, the apartment number if there is one, the name of the town, and the place’s phone number. If the emergency is on the street, find the nearest intersection (for example, Fourth Avenue and Main Street).
When you dial 911, the operator will ask, “Ambulance, fire or police?” Tell her quickly and clearly. She will connect to someone at the hospital, fire department or police station.
If you don’t know which you need, tell the operator what is happening. Use simple words. Stay on until the operator ends the call.
The operator may ask you several questions. Some are needed to find out more about the emergency. Others – like your date of birth – may be for research. Answer all the questions as well as you can.
Try to stay calm. Help is on the way.
Copyright Manna Computer Services, Inc. Reproducible for personal or classroom use. Images by Clipartisland.com, used with permission.
