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Randolph County marks 911 awareness

The Randolph County 911 Emergency Telephone Systems Board announced April 8-14 is "National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week" and thanks the telecommunicators for their large contribution to public safety in Randolph County.

The U.S. Congress and National Emergency Number Association have recognized April as National 911 Education Month, and are encouraging the 911 community, the wireless industry, and public information providers to engage in 911 awareness. This month Randolph County 911 will be highlighting 911 education, the importance of address posting, cellphones and use of 911.

It is important to help 911 help you. In an emergency, seconds matter, so being knowledgeable and prepared can make all the difference. Here's what you can do:

Know when to call 911. Only dial 911 if you or someone is in immediate need of police, fire or medical assistance. If you are not sure if your situation is an emergency, please call 911 and the telecommunicator will guide you.

Know the capabilities of the device you are using. 911 can be contacted from most every device that can make phone calls. However, the callback and location information that accompanies your call to the 911 call center can vary drastically among technologies and between geographic regions. 911 and telecommunication professionals are hard at work to make sure 911 works the same on all devices in the future, but until that time it is our job to be knowledgeable about benefits and limitations associated with various technologies. Contact your service provider or local 911 Office for more information.

Know where you are. This is the most important information you can provide as a 911 caller, so be aware of your surroundings at all times. If outside but do not know the street address, look around and try to find landmarks or cross streets. Be aware when entering buildings. Look for exits. Know what floor you are on, which apartment or room you are in.

Stay Calm, Never hang up. Though it may be difficult, do not panic. A quicker response time will result from prompt, accurate information given to the telecommunicator.

Cellphones and 911. A wireless 911 caller must be aware that the 911 answering point may not be the 911 answering point that services the area the wireless caller is calling from. Stay calm. Your wireless call may need to be transferred to the correct answering point. Knowing the location of the call is vital to getting the appropriate police, fire or EMS units to respond.