Helpful Hints
Be ready to give the LOCATION OF THE EMERGENCY you are reporting - YOU MAY BE TRANSFERRED TO THE CORRECT 9-1-1 CENTER - DO NOT HANG UP UNLESS IT IS NOT SAFE FOR YOU TO STAY ON THE PHONE. Hanging up may delay the sending of emergency help.
Keep in mind that some of the cell sites that serve wireless callers in Columbia County are located along Interstate 5 in the State of Washington -- so if you call 9-1-1 from a cell phone in Columbia County you might be answered by Cowlitz County 9-1-1 in Longview, WA or Clark County 9-1-1 in Vancouver, WA. They can complete the transfer more quickly if you tell them you want Columbia County 9-1-1.
Many cell, internet phones and landlines transmit location information to the 9-1-1 call center. Some transmit the phone number, and some do not provide any location information at all. Be sure to check with your provider to assure that accurate location information is transmitted with your call to 9-1-1.
ALWAYS BE READY TO ANSWER QUESTIONS. The 9-1-1 call taker works with a dispatch partner in 9-1-1 centers. Often police, fire and ambulance units are being sent by the dispatcher at the same time the call taker continues to ask questions of the caller. THE 9-1-1 DISPATCHER RELAYS YOUR INFORMATION BY RADIO TO THE POLICE, FIRE OR AMBULANCE UNITS AS THEY RESPOND TO THE LOCATION OF THE EMERGENCY.
In Summary:
Remember - as a reporting party of a 9-1-1 emergency, you are an important partner with the 9-1-1 caller taking and dispatching team. We want to get help to you fast. We need your eyes and patience while we work with you. Thank you for your cooperation!
Don't Lock Up 9-1-1 - Lock Your Cell Pad
Did you know that one simple step would stop a problem plaguing 9-1-1 centers across the nation? Currently, 30% of all cellular 9-1-1 calls are unintentional.
Lock Your Keypad
With a simple step, you can help ensure that you won't be the one who ties up 9-1-1 unintentionally.
Placing a cellular phone in your pocket or purse without locking the keypad can dial 9-1-1.
These calls tie up 9-1-1 call takers while other valid emergency calls wait for help.
Please help your local 9-1-1 call center by locking your keypad. You can still answer incoming calls with the keypad locked.
LOCK YOUR KEYPAD
Any questions?? Call our business office at (503) 397-7255 ext. 2222 or ext. 2223 Or, call to speak to a non-emergency dispatcher at (503) 397-1521 or 1-800-696-7795.