EMERGENCY PHONE CALLS....GET IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME

When an emergency, such as a fire, occurs, people become panicky and confused. As a result, many calls received by emergency dispatchers are not complete enough for help to arrive quickly. Sometimes no calls are received because everyone thought someone else had already called the fire department. The Brunswick Fire Department offers the following suggestions:

1. Know the emergency numbers 911 in Brunswick
2. Keep these numbers posted on every telephone in your house and ask neighbors to do the same. In case of fire in your house, you will need a neighbor's phone to call the fire department.
3. Call the operator if you cannot remember the number.
4. Give the dispatcher the complete address of the fire (include names of subdivisions, apartment numbers, etc.) and give your name. Give the phone number of the place from where you are calling and describe the fire. Wait to answer questions. Do not hang up.

Emergency calls made the right way help save lives. False emergency calls made as a joke are crimes that cost lives. False alarms tie up emergency telephone lines and endanger emergency personnel driving to the scene. Most dispatchers tape and trace incoming calls and this can help apprehend those calling in false alarms.

Back   Other safety messages