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1. When should I use 9-1-1?

In case of an emergency, use 9-1-1 to save a life, report a fire, or stop a crime.

2. What should I expect when I dial 9-1-1?

The most important thing to remember when dialing 9-1-1 is to remain calm. We can assist you much faster and more effectively if you are calm, able to provide the required information, and able to listen to instructions and follow them.

3. What can I expect once someone answers at 9-1-1?

You will be greeted with the phrase, "9-1-1, what is the address of the emergency?" Please note that the first question asked is where. This is because as long as we know where the problem is, we can send someone to help, or we can transfer you to the appropriate agency. The next question you will hear is, "What is the phone number you are calling from?" This is because we want to be able to reach you if the line is disconnected. The third question is, "Tell me exactly what happened." Most people expect us to ask what is happening immediately, but as you can see, we don't ask that until we know where and how to re-contact you. It has been determined that this is the most effective and safest way to answer a 9-1-1 call.

4. I've told you where, how to reach me, and what is happening, what's next?

If you have called because of a medical emergency, then your call taker will refer to their Emergency Medical Dispatch Protocols. These are tools to help us determine the best way of helping the person in need. You will be asked questions such as, "How old is she?" and "Is she awake?" Once we determine the most pressing medical problem, we will be asking more specific questions relating to that problem. If you know the answers, please provide them so we have the best opportunity to help. If you don't know the answer to any of the questions we ask, please state so. At the end of the questioning, we will provide you with care-giving techniques to assist you in helping the patient until responders arrive.

5. What other type of questions can I expect to be asked?

If you have called to report a fire, you can expect to be asked such questions as, "What is on fire?" Other examples include, "Is anyone trapped?" or "Is the fire near any other structures or vehicles?" The more information you can provide to us, without endangering yourself or others, the better we are able to serve you.

If you are reporting a crime in progress, the highest priority is to ensure your safety. Once you are safe, we will obtain critical information about the crime so the responding officers know how best to proceed. Please listen carefully to the instructions we provide and the questions we ask, so you can make a difference.

6. After giving information and listening to instructions, what should I expect next?

Now that we've sent people to help and obtained the critical information from you, we will either ask you to stay on the line with us in case the situation changes or instruct you that is OK to hang up. Please don't hang up until you are instructed to do so. There are many reasons we would ask you to remain on the line.

7. How do I find out about statewide road conditions?

Dial 5-1-1 or use the link below. Colorado Road Conditions

8. Can I send a text message to 9-1-1?

Yes. This service is available within Pitkin County for Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint customers.