What can I expect to happen in the call with the dispatcher?
Try to be calm and speak clearly to the dispatcher. The dispatcher will ask you a lot of questions.
  • If you are hysterical, we can't understand what you are trying to say. The quicker we get the information, the faster we can have officers respond.
  • We need to know Who, What, When, Where, and sometimes Why.
  • The dispatcher is the "ears until the eyes can arrive" - meaning, they hear what is going on and relay the information to the officers who are responding. This information gives the officers an idea of what has taken place and who and what to look for.
  • The dispatcher talking to you is not the person who will dispatch the officers. While the initial dispatcher is asking questions, gathering information and entering it into a computer a second dispatcher is viewing the call and dispatching it to the officers. So, do not get frustrated with the number of questions being asked, it is not delaying the officers from responding.
  • Tell us if someone has a weapon! We want to keep our officers and citizens safe! A beer bottle or brick can be a weapon if someone is using it to threaten another.

Show All Answers

1. Can I call 911 for non-emergency purposes?
2. What are some examples of appropriate times to call 911?
3. What is the most important thing I need to know when calling 911?
4. Can I text 911?
5. What if I speak another language?
6. How does 911 work in the Metroplex?
7. What should I do if no one is answering and I receive a busy signal or message?
8. What should I do If I have to hang up?
9. What can I expect to happen in the call with the dispatcher?
10. What should I teach my children about 911?
11. Can I see or speak with the officer who responds to my call?
12. Can old, uninitialized (non-service) cell phones dial 911?
13. How does 911 Work?