Calling 9-1-1 is supposed to be the most efficient way to you the help that you need. But there are a few things that you should know and be prepared for if you need to call 9-1-1.

1. Stay calm – We understand that when you call 9-1-1 you are usually in a stressful situation. We will be asking a series of very important questions as soon as we answer the phone. The easiest way to get this information is from you. Remaining calm allows you to think more clearly and answer these questions quickly and more accurately.

2. The Questions – There are going to be a series of questions that the dispatcher will ask when the call is answered. The most important information will be the location of the emergency, what the emergency is, and the township, city, or borough. This is the minimum information needed. These questions will be followed with a second series of questions like; your name, address, and phone number you’re calling from.

3. ProQA– After they get the second set of questions answered, in most cases they will start on a third series of questions in ProQA. (Unless the severity of the emergency warrants an early dispatch) The ProQA questions are mainly to gain additional but important information to give the emergency responders while they are on their way to the location of the incident. They can also have you preform CPR, and other simple diagnostics with step-by-step instructions in order to provide care to the victim while help is on the way.