9-1-1 facts for kids

9-1-1 or 911 (often said as "nine-one-one") is a very important phone number. It is the emergency telephone number for countries like the United States, Canada, Argentina, and others. You should only use this number when there is a real emergency. This means when you are in serious trouble and need help right away. Calling 9-1-1 when there is no emergency can cause problems and is against the rules.

What is 9-1-1?

9-1-1 connects you to emergency services. These services include the police, the fire department, and ambulances. When you call, a trained person called a dispatcher answers. They will ask you questions to understand what kind of help you need. Then, they send the right help to you quickly.

When to Call 9-1-1

You should call 9-1-1 only for true emergencies. Here are some examples:

• Someone is hurt or very sick and needs medical help.
• You see a fire, like a house on fire or a car on fire.
• There is a crime happening, or you see something dangerous.
• You are in a car accident and someone is injured.

When NOT to Call 9-1-1

It is very important not to call 9-1-1 for small problems. Do not call if:

• You have a question about homework.
• You want to know the time.
• You are playing a prank.
• You lost your pet (unless it's causing a dangerous situation).
• You need directions.

Calling for non-emergencies can stop people with real emergencies from getting help. It also takes up the time of emergency workers.

What to Say When You Call

When you call 9-1-1, try to stay calm. The dispatcher will ask you:

• What is your emergency? Explain clearly what is happening.
• Where are you? Give your exact address or location. Look for street names or landmarks.
• What is your phone number? This helps them call you back if needed.

Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you it is okay. They might need more information from you.

Related Pages

• Emergency telephone number
• 1-1-2
• 9-9-9
• 000 Emergency
• Rescue 911

Images for kids

• 

  A dispatcher takes an emergency call at the Jackson, Tennessee, 9-1-1 Dispatch Center.

• 

See also

In Spanish: 911 (teléfono) para niños