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1. When should I call 911?

You should call 911 when you need emergency response from Police, Fire and/or Emergency Medical personnel.

2. When calling 911, what is the basic information that I need to know?

When you call 9-1-1, you should provide your address, phone number, and reason for calling.

3. What number do I call for a controlled burn?

Please, call the non-emergency line at (410) 479-2222 to schedule a controlled burn.

4. What if the caller is speech or hearing impaired?

The 9-1-1 call takers are trained to detect data signals unique to telecommunication devices for the speech and hearing impaired. These calls are immediately connected to a special device that allows communications with the caller.

Text Telephone (TTY/TDD) Users: Wait until your call is answered, then press the space bar or any touch tone key several times to send data signal to identify your call as TTY/TDD call.

5. Will they keep me on the phone and ask other questions?

In an emergency, the more information responders have, the better they can help. The actual dispatch of emergency services has already happened as soon as the location of the emergency is known. The 9-1-1 call taker relays the information that they receive to first responders in the field and remains on the phone with the caller to obtain additional information and provide instructions. The 9-1-1 Center utilizes a state-of-the-art network of computers, telephones and radios to communicate and dispatch information to others even while they are on the phone with you. The 9-1-1 call taker will use this time to confirm the name, address, and ask any additional questions. For example:

Suspect or vehicle information for crimes in progress.

Age of patient and are they conscious and breathing?

What is on fire and are there any other dangers?

6. What happens if I call 9-1-1 and there is a busy signal?

Please hang up and dial 9-1-1 again. As long as your local telephone service is operating, this situation is highly unlikely. The enhanced 9-1-1 network has several back-up systems to ensure that 9-1-1 calls are answered.

7. I am interested in a career as a Dispatcher. How do I find out more?

Visit the Jobs Center for current openings within the Emergency Communications division.