FAQs

1.  ​​​​​​When should I call 9-1-1?  A good 'rule of thumb', call 9-1-1 if:

          Someone needs an ambulance

          Something is on fire

          Drunk or dangerous driving

          You see a crime in progress

          To prevent a crime about to happen

When in doubt - call, it's okay

2.  ​Why does 9-1-1 ask so many questions?

          We may only have one opportunity to gather information about your emergency. It is critical to get as much information as possible.  Based on your answers, the most appropriate response can be sent. Our goal is to ensure an accurate and quick response to the emergency you are reporting and answering all asked questions will assist in the proper and timely response of responders. 

3.  Why do they ask me some questions more than once, aren't they paying attention?

​          We are paying attention, we promise! Usually it is to confirm information you have given us. Like your address or phone number. We are going to be as sure as we possibly can that we record the correct information and the most reliable way to do that is to have you repeat it. Sometimes it is because the phone connection we have with you isn't very clear, especially if you are calling from a cell phone or from a cordless home phone that may be too far away from its base.

4.  What if I dial 9-1-1 by accident?

     DO NOT HANG UP! Stay on the line and tell us that you called by accident. You may be asked to verify your location and/or phone number. We may ask you more than once if you have an emergency because we are listening to everything about your call. Not just what you are saying, but how you say it, can you repeat it without hesitation and what, if anything, can be heard in the background of your call. 

5.  What if I don't speak English as my primary language?

          CCECC can provide, via conference calling, access to language translation services for over 150 different languages. 

6.  What if I can only communicate by TDD/TTY?

          CCECC is equipped with TDD detectors and with a relay service that enable us to communicate with the hearing impaired.

7.  What if I only have an internet/digital phone service?

          VoIP (Voiceover Internet Protocol), also called internet, digital, broadband or cable phone service is a rapidly growing alternative to traditional 'landline' telephone services. It may look and appear to work like a traditional phone, but it connects over the internet, not a telephone line. So if the power goes out, your VoIP service may not work. If you travel with your VoIP adaptor, your call may not reach the correct 9-1-1 center. Be sure to check your service provider's website for emergency calling features and inform children, babysitters and visitors about your VoIP service. 

8.  Do you provide Text to 9-1-1 yet?

        Not yet, but we should be up and running with Text to 9-1-1 before the end of 2019.