Sunflower

911 Frequently Asked Questions

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Non-emergency telephone numbers:
Washington County Sheriff - 785-325-2293
Kansas Highway Patrol - 785-827-4437
KBI - 785-296-8200
Can I call 9-1-1 from my wireless phone?
  • Yes, but 9-1-1 dispatchers will not receive your phone number or location automatically.

  • Know where you are -- address, intersection, mile marker.

  • Know your phone number.
    If emergency personnel cannot find your location, they need to be able to call you back for additional information.

  • If I call 9-1-1 will there be an immediate response?

  • All life-threatening emergencies are responded to immediately.

  • Other calls are handled by priority.

  • The situations which could cause the most harm to people or property are handled before those with no safety issues.

  • What should I do if a dispatcher doesn't answer immediately?

  • Stay on the line. 9-1-1 calls are answered in order received.

  • Be ready with your information: address, telephone number and problem

  • If you hang up or are disconnected, the call still comes through to the 9-1-1 dispatch

  • Do 9-1-1 Dispatchers provide emergency medical instructions?

    Yes. 9-1-1 Dispatchers can help with:

  • CPR on someone who isn't breathing and may not have a pulse.

  • Emergency childbirth.

  • Severe bleeding problems.

  • Being prepared for the emergency crews.

  • 911 Frequently Asked Questions

    STAY ON THE PHONE! Wait until the dispatcher hangs up, in case they need more information or have further instructions.

    Does 9-1-1 work with Poison Control?

  • Yes. The 9-1-1 dispatcher will ask you questions to determine if an ambulance is needed.

  • Your call can be transferred to Poison Control.

  • The 9-1-1 dispatcher will monitor the call, in case the patient's condition gets worse and EMS would be needed.

  • When should I teach my child about 9-1-1?

  • Depends on the child. If the child can read numbers and dial the phone, they can be taught how to call 9-1-1. Some children can do this at age two and a half to three years old, some are five years old before they understand.

  • Teach them when to call 9-1-1. Children can recognize emergencies such as fire or someone unconscious. They can also be taught when law enforcement officers are needed.

  • Remind children 9-1-1 is for emergency only.
  • What should I do if I accidentally call 9-1-1?
  • Don't hang up!!! Simply explain to the dispatcher what happened.
    Why?
  • If you hang up or are disconnected, the call still comes through to the 9-1-1- dispatcher. They will try to call you back. If no one answer, law enforcement officers will be sent to the address on the call.

  • Remember....be prepared to:
  • Describe the problem.
  • Give the address or location.
  • Stay on the phone.

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