911 Tips

Scituate Police Department

Scituate, Massachusetts 02066

9-1-1 Tips

As a citizen, there are certain things you need to know when calling 9-1-1. We have put together some information to better assist you in understanding 9-1-1 and what to do when you call.

9-1-1 is an emergency number for police, fire, and medical emergencies. It was created as an easy-to-remember, no-coin method to get help in an emergency situation.

As emergency dispatchers, we are well trained to handle the situations that you call us for, but we need your cooperation.

HELP US HELP YOU!

GUIDELINES FOR CALLING 9-1-1

DO NOT HANG UP: If you dialed the number by mistake, please stay on the line long enough to explain this to the dispatcher. When you call, your name, phone number and address appear on the screen. If you hang up, it is out policy to send a police officer out to the location that you called from.

ALWAYS VERIFY THE ADDRESS YOU ARE AT: When you move, the phone company may not have changed the data in their system. This can result in help going to the wrong address.

DO NOT YELL/CUSS AT THE DISPATCHER: We realize that you might be angry and upset, but please understand that we are here to help you. The more you cooperate, the quicker we can get you help.

9-1-1 IS FOR EMERGENCIES ONLY: This includes medical problems, any fires, and crimes in progress. This does not include crimes where the suspect is gone, or to tell us your power is out.

If you have an emergency and are unable to talk on the phone for any reason, dial 9-1-1. Police will respond to all hang-ups and open lines.

The dispatcher will try to stay on the phone with you if needed. Remember that we have other emergencies to handle and will get back to you as soon as possible.