Next Tuesday, May 5, the Ravenna-Bryant Community Association’s annual meeting will focus on public safety. In addition to hearing from new Assistant Chief Wilske, leaders from the 9-1-1 call center will provide information about how the 9-1-1 system works and take questions from community members.
One topic they will discuss is when and how to call 9-1-1. Following is some information from their website.
You Should call 9-1-1 . . .
• When you have a Police, Fire or Medical emergency.
• There is a situation that could, or does, pose a danger to life, property or both.
• There is a suspicious activity involving a person(s) or vehicle that appears to have criminal intent.
• Any situation that requires immediate dispatch of an officer.
Remain calm and patient while the 9-1-1 calltaker asks you questions. 9-1-1 calltakers are trained to ask specific questions that quickly determine what is wrong, and what type of assistance to send.
Be Prepared for the following questions . . .
1. WHERE did this occur? Did it happen on the street, inside, outside, in front or in back, etc?
• An exact street address is best. Look at numbers posted on buildings around you. View the street signs to provide hundred-block or intersection information.
• If you are driving, be aware of the road or highway on which you are traveling. Look for landmarks or businesses that are very near to your location.
• It is a very good idea to post your address and phone number near your telephone. In an emergency situation is it easy to forget the most basic of information.
2. WHAT happened?
3. WHEN did this occur? Is the event still in progress?
Let the 9-1-1 Calltaker ask the questions
Even if the calltaker’s questions seem unrelated or repetitious, let the calltaker lead the conversation and answer their questions. Calltakers are trained to gather information in a certain order to quickly assess the situation and decide what assistance is best to help you. They may need to clarify a previous answer, or may already be aware of the situation you are reporting and need to find out if you have any additional information.
To learn more and have your questions answered, participate in the annual meeting on Tuesday, May 5, 7:00 p.m., at the Ravenna-Eckstein Community Center. All RBCA meetings are open to the public.