Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when you call 911?
PCJC follows protocols that guide callers through a sequence of questions to quickly obtain information necessary for dispatching the right responders to the right location. Call-takers may also provide instructions about what to do until help arrives. Even though protocols are designed to help call-takers reassure callers and take charge of the situation, the experience can be stressful. When you call 911, be prepared to answer the call-taker’s questions.
The call-taker’s questions are important to get the right kind of help to you as quickly as possible. Be prepared to follow any instructions the call-taker gives you. PCJC can tell you exactly what to do until help arrives, such as providing step-by-step instructions to aid someone who is choking or needs first aid or CPR. Do not hang up until the call-taker instructs you to do so.
What should I do if I accidentally dial 911?
If you dial 911 by mistake, or if a child in your home dials 911 when no emergency exists, do not hang up – that could make 911 officials think that an emergency exists, and possibly send responders to your location. Instead, simply explain to the call-taker what happened while this may not eliminate a field response the information is helpful.
Can I Text 911 for emergency assistance?
Not currently in Pettis County.
How can I reach 911 in a different state, county, or city?
With few exceptions, 911 calls cannot be transferred to another location. The best option to obtain assistance or information in another location is to dial the 10-digit phone number for law enforcement of the community where assistance is needed.
Are 911 Call Takers certified?
In Pettis County, 911 Communications Specialists are certified as Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD), Emergency Fire Dispatchers (EFD) and Emergency Police Dispatchers (EPD), which means that they have received additional specialized training to assist callers in those disciplines.