*Editor’s note: This is the first in a column series that details the Texas County 911 system.
An emergency is any situation that requires immediate assistance from the police, fire department or ambulance. Examples include: A fire; a crime, especially if in progress; a car crash, especially if someone is injured; or a medical emergency, especially symptoms that require immediate medical attention.
Important: If you’re not sure whether the situation is a true emergency, officials recommend calling 911 and letting the call-taker help you determine whether you need emergency help.
When you call 911, be prepared to answer the call-taker’s questions, which may include:
• The location of the emergency, including the street address.
• The phone number you are calling from.
• The nature of the emergency.
• Details about the emergency, such as a physical description of a person who may have committed a crime, a description of any fire that may be burning, or a description of injuries or symptoms being experienced by a person having a medical emergency.
Remember, the call-taker’s questions are important to get the right kind of help to you quickly. Be prepared to follow any instructions the call-taker gives you. 911 can tell you exactly what to do until help arrives, such as providing step-by-step instructions to aid someone who is choking or needs first aid or CPR. Do not hang up until the call-taker instructs you to.
If you dial 911 by mistake, or if a child in your home dials 911 when no emergency exists, do not hang up — that could make 911 officials think that an emergency exists, and possibly send responders to your location. Instead, simply explain to the call-taker what happened.
Our business office number or if you need a new address: 417-967-5309
To report a controlled fire only call: 417-967-5996 or 967-5997.
For after hours to report power outages call your provider with the exception of City of Houston 417-967-5996 or 967-5997.
Donna Robertson is executive director of the Texas County Emergency Services 911 system. Email texascounty911@hotmail.com.