Seconds count during an emergency. Everyone needs to use 9-1-1 properly to get quick help during a fire, medical emergency or a crime.

This is especially true for children. They can, and must be taught how to correctly use the 9-1-1 system to save a life.

Follow these guidelines to teach children the proper way to use 9-1-1 to report emergencies:

Do...

Always call from a safe location. If the house is on fire, get out first and then call from a nearby telephone.
Teach children their full name and address. And always post your full address near your home phone.
Teach children to remain as calm as possible when speaking with the 9-1-1 operator so they can get the provide the correct information to send help.
Wait until the 9-1-1 operator tells you it is okay to hang up the telephone. It is common for 9-1-1 operators to keep young callers on the line until help arrives. 9-1-1 operators are also trained to provide life saving directions to callers during medical emergencies.
If you call 9-1-1 by mistake, don't hang up. Tell the 9-1-1 operator there is no emergency and you dialed by accident. If you hang up before speaking with the operator, they could send emergency crews to your location needlessly.

Do not...

Do not call 9-1-1 as a joke or prank. You can get into serious trouble. More importantly, you can delay someone else getting the help they need in an emergency.
Do not hang up the telephone until the 9-1-1 operator tells you it is okay to do so.
Do not call 9-1-1 for animal emergencies. Call the SPCA or your public safety office for assistance.
Do not call 9-1-1 for noisy neighbors, loud music, or barking dogs. Again, call your local police precinct.