Details are important, What to tell the dispatcher

Law Enforcement:

For Police matters, if you are reporting a crime in progress, pay particular attention to the suspects physical characteristics and clothing.  If there is a vehicle involved, get a good description by Color, Year, Make, Body Style and License number and State if at all possible.  Get the direction of travel if the suspect(s) leave.  Give the exact location of the incident and details of any injuries or deaths.

Do not attempt to apprehend or detain suspects.

Fire Service:

For reporting a Fire, tell what is on fire, give the exact address or location, if anyone is in danger or in the structure or if there is a danger of explosion from combustibles.  Get out of danger.

 Ambulance Service:

For Medical emergencies give the same name and address information as on other 9-1-1 calls. Describe the medical problem in some detail.  Be prepared to answer certain questions from the dispatcher to help classify the call. Examples:

1.  Patient’s age and current medical history

2.  Is the patient breathing normally?

3.  Is the patient awake or conscious?

4.  Is the patient able to speak

5.  Are you with the patient?

6. Patient’s medical history such as heart problems or diabetes?

Boyd County is implementing Emergency Medical Dispatch protocols to better assist the callers and patients in medical situations.  The dispatchers will obtain the vital information to be able to dispatch the EMS crews and then will gather further information and provide pre-arrival instructions for first aid care of the patient if needed and if the calling party is willing to participate.

Don’t call 9-1-1 for an ambulance to take someone home from the hospital or to and from a doctor’s appointment.

Saves time… Saves lives!