Calling 9-1-1
In an emergency, dial 9-1-1 from your phone immediately.
An emergency is any situation that requires immediate assistance from the police, fire department or ambulance.
How to report an emergency
THE FIVE W's
Where, What, Who, When, and Why?
When calling 9-1-1 for assistance, the dispatcher will ask you the "five W's".
WHERE? |
Where are you? Where is the scene?
|
WHAT? |
What happened?
|
WHO? |
Who’s involved? Is anyone hurt?
|
WHEN? |
When did it happen? Is it going on right now?
|
WHY? |
Follow-up questions |
Critical Details:
|
PEOPLE How many people are involved? Who is involved? What do they look like? What are they wearing? What are they carrying? |
WEAPON Any object can be a weapon if it is used in a threatening manner or causes death or serious bodily injury. Name the specific weapon? Who has the weapon? Where is the weapon? |
WHERE DID THEY GO? Point of reference. Directional guide. |
9-1-1 Tips
- Do stay on the line. Your call will be answered as soon as possible.
- Do you have critical information available? Write it down if necessary.
- Do let the dispatcher ask the questions. The dispatcher will determine how to best help you.
- Do stay on the line as long as needed. The dispatcher may need to update information.
What happens when you call 9-1-1 for a medical emergency in Santa Clara County
What Happens When You Call 9-1-1 for a Medical Emergency In Santa Clara County