Frequently Ask Questions about 9-1-1
When should I dial 9-1-1?
Dial 9-1-1 to report any emergency: Police, Fire or Medical. If you need help, immediately, dial 9-1-1 . Don't waste time, dial 9-1-1 as soon as you think help is needed! Some examples of times to dial 9-1-1:
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Car wreck
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Someone is choking on their food
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Fire of any type, house, woods or other building
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If you see a crime
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Dangerous situation such as gas leak or a power line down
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Someone is drowning
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Someone is hurt or is bleeding or is having trouble breathing
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Tornado or other severe weather damages your home
What Can I do?
You can make a real difference by helping until the emergency units arrive. The dispatcher will provide directions for things such as:
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CPR
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Rescue Breathing
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Childbirth
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Choking (Heimlich maneuver)
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Controlling Bleeding
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Other first-aid
Osage County dispatchers are trained to provide pre-arrival instructions to callers. Medical emergencies are the most common use of pre-arrival instructions. Other pre-arrival instructions include evacuation and survival techniques in a burning building or exiting and/or barricading techniques with callers involved in a domestic disturbance.
When Should I NOT Call 9-1-1?
Do not call 9-1-1 if the problem is not a true emergency. If you call 9-1-1 for non-emergencies, someone with a real emergency might have a delay in receiving service. Below are some examples of non-emergencies:
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Loud party or music
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Barking dogs or cats up a tree
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To ask directions or for general information
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To report water or electricity is out
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To check if a police report is ready
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To check for severe weather reports
If you have a non-emergency, please dial 573.897.2285 or 573.897.2338.