When To Call 911 Q. How do I know if I have a real emergency? An emergency is when immediate police, fire, or medical assistance is necessary to protect life or property. If an emergency situation arises, ask yourself one important question. Is there an immediate need for police, fire, or paramedics to protect or save life or property? If you can answer, "yes" to this question, then dial 9-1-1. Q. What should I tell the Communications Officer when I call? Stay Calm; Give your name, location, and nature of the emergency. Listen Carefully to the questions and instructions of the Communications Officer. Answer all questions as accurately as possible. Speak clearly and slowly. Do exactly as instructed during the course of the call. Q. Should I hang up and try to help or stay on the line? Never hang up until you are told to do so. If you hang up and redial, you will go to the end of the line of people waiting for service. It may be frustrating for you, but we will need you to stay on the line until we advise you that it is all right to hang up. Be patient if we seem to ask a lot of questions. There are certain things that we must know to provide you with the services you need. Q. If I accidentally call 9-1-1 should I hang up? No, stay on the phone and let the Communications Officer know that it was a mistake. Also remember to place your cell phone on "Lock or Keylock" mode so that it does not dial 9-1-1.