• Remain calm
• Speak clearly
• Listen to ALL instructions
• Answer ALL questions

The Communications Officer speaking with you may have many questions to ask depending on the nature of the problem. If you are reporting a crime, pay particular attention to the suspect's physical appearance: height, weight, hair color, clothing, any physical characteristics such as facial hair, glasses and accent. If a vehicle is involved, give a clear description of the color, make, body style and license plate number. Do not attempt to apprehend or detain suspects.

For fire emergencies, give the location, including any type of visible flames, smoke or odor. Information such as cross streets, business name or if anyone is inside the structure is also helpful.

For medical emergencies, give the name and exact location of the patient. Describe any medical problem. Be prepared to answer questions the Emergency Communications Officer may use to classify the calls.

Dos

• Use 911 for the dispatch of Police, Fire and EMS
• Teach your children how to use 911 wisely in case of an emergency
• Use payphones in an emergency to call 911 (call is free)

Don'ts

• Don't call 911 when the power goes off or the weather is threatening. Call your utility company, and monitor television and radio for weather information
• Don't call 911 to see how much a traffic ticket is or to check to see if someone is in jail
• Don't call 911 for directions

Check out this website to search for current and past crime reports in neighborhoods and all areas of Newton County. https://www.crimereports.com/agency/newtonsheriffga

• The location of the emergency.
• Description of persons or vehicles involved in the incident and landmarks, and directions to the emergency.
• The nature of the emergency.
• The phone number that you are calling from.
• Your name.

It is important to stay calm, speak clearly and stay on the line as long as you feel safe or until the call-taker tells you to hang up. It may seem as the dispatcher is asking too many questions, but it is important for the call taker to get as much information as possible. The information received from you is relayed to the units that are responding to the incident.