How Does 911 Work?

14 Sep

“First Aid” means giving assistance before anyone else (especially trained medical providers) arrives on the scene. If you are trained in First Aid, you have the valuable life-saving skills you need to make a difference. However, even if you don’t have First Aid training, there are a few important things you can do to help the victim(s) of an injury or illness.

According to the American Heart Association, one of the most important first steps include making sure the scene is safe. This includes looking and listening for oncoming cars, downed power lines, animals, or other hazards that contributed to the injury or could make it worse. Remember: You can’t help the victim unless you are safe and healthy.

If the scene is not safe for the victim and it is possible to move him or her out of harm’s way, do it. But again, make sure you don’t get injured as well. As soon as possible, call 911.

In today’s day and age, make sure you understand how 911 works. When you call from a landline, 911 operators are usually able to locate the address you are calling from. However, if you call from a cell phone, your call bounces off the closest cell tower and may be routed to a neighboring city…or even a neighboring state. It is important to tell 911 operators what city, county and state you are in. Those operators can then contact your local emergency dispatcher for you. Remember: Always give as much information as possible, even if it seems unnecessary. And don’t ever hang up until the dispatcher tells you to!

Next, ask the victim if he or she wants assistance. If the person doesn’t respond, assume that they do want help and if you know CPR, begin assisting them. Also, remember to check the victim for injuries or illness. Assess each situation carefully and don’t panic! And remember, many people wear medical jewelry such as bracelets or necklaces that will alert you to their problem. This is good information to tell the 911 operator.

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