Department of Public Safety

9-1-1 Calling Tips


9-1-1 Calling Tips

  1. What is 9-1-1 ?
  2. How do I call 9-1-1?
  3. What information do I need when I call 9-1-1 ?
  4. When should I call 9-1-1 ?
  5. What should I call if I do not have an emergency ?
  6. How can I learn more about Mercer County E9-1-1 ?

What is 9-1-1 ?

9-1-1 is a three-digit telephone number that you can call 24 hours a day for police, fire, or medical emergencies -- a situation requiring the immediate presence of police officers, fire fighters or emergency medical personnel.

It saves valuable time in an EMERGENCY. According to nationwide statistics, it can take up to 2 1/2 minutes to find your telephone directory and another 30 seconds to locate the correct number. In an EMERGENCY, 3 minutes is a long time---time that can be saved by remembering to call 9-1-1.

There is one easy-to remember number to call for police, fire and medical emergencies -- 911. No coin is required if calling from a pay phone.

But please remember, 911 is an emergency number ONLY.

    To place non-emergency calls to a police agency, fire department or medical service, please consult your telephone directory for the appropriate numbers.
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How do I call 9-1-1 ?

You can call 9-1-1 from any phone with a dial tone.  9-1-1 is a free call from ALL coin phones, and cellular telephones.

Remain Calm and speak clearly. Provide the dispatcher with the following information:

  • What is happening?
  • Where is the location?
  • What is your name, address and phone number?

Please remain on the telephone to provide additional information as requested by the dispatcher. DO NOT hang up until the dispatcher advises you to do so.

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What information do I need when I call?

Provide the dispatcher with the following information:

  • What is the address of the emergency?
  • What is your name, address and phone number?
  • What is happening?
  • Who is involved?

When you call 9-1-1, your call is received by a trained communications specialist who takes your information. Then, the appropriate police, fire, and/or medical services team located in your area is notified, and service is dispatched. Hence the term "9-1-1 Dispatcher".

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When should I call 9-1-1 ?

Call 9-1-1 for police, fire, and medical service when you feel an EMERGENCY response is needed.  

Do NOT call 9-1-1 for:
Road/travel information, telephone directory assistance, requesting rides, parade information, weather information or any other non-police / fire / EMS needs.  Your telephone directory has these numbers.

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What should I call if I don't have an emergency ?

For a non-emergency response you can dial 724-662-6110 (24 hours).  If you have administrative needs (request for reports, etc) you can locate those numbers on Page 4 of the blue pages in your telephone book or by clicking here for administrative police numbers or here for administrative fire needs.

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How can I learn more about Mercer County E9-1-1 ?

The 9-1-1 center can send out speakers for your organization to help explain 9-1-1, and how it works.

If you would like additional information or a tour of the 9-1-1 center, call the deputy director Terra Shaffer @ 724-662-6104.

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