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1. What is 911?

911 is the universal emergency number that you can use 24 hours a day for Police, Fire, or Emergency Medical Services.

2. When should I use 911?

911 should be used whenever there is an immediate danger to life or property. It should be called to report fires, crimes in progress, or medical emergencies.

3. Can I dial 911 from any phone?

911 can be dialed from any home, business, coin or cellular phone. It is always a free call. Some locations, such as businesses with PBX systems, require a 1 or 2 digit access number to get an outside line before you can dial 911. Be sure that you learn the access number if one is required at your workplace. Directions to dial 911 should be posted on all telephones.

4. Who will answer when I call 911?

Your 911 call will be answered by a professional telecommunicator trained in handling 911 emergency calls.

5. What will they ask and how should I answer?

You will be asked what your emergency is and the location where you need assistance. You should remain calm, speak clearly and slowly, and say:

• I need the fire department at 123 Main Street, my house is on fire.
• I need the police at 123 Main Street, someone’s breaking into my neighbor’s house.
• I need the emergency squad at 123 Main Street, there is a man having a heart attack.

You should always include the name of the municipality you are in, not your post office.

6. Can I call a police station directly?

Yes! There are many instances when you need only a question answered, to provide information or to return a call to a representative for the department. In most cases, these calls are best made Monday through Friday during normal business hours. These numbers are frequently listed in the blue pages of your Verizon telephone directory.

7. Are there things I shouldn't call for?

Yes! some examples of calls that shouldn’t be made to 911 and non-emergency services telephone lines:

• Calls to request information about special events and municipal services schedules
• Power outages
• School closings
• Traffic conditions
• Weather reports

Extreme weather conditions, holidays, and major events increase demands on all emergency service agencies. In times like these, you can do your part in safeguarding your communications lifeline by keeping telephone lines and emergency services personnel clear and available to handle true emergencies from you and neighboring communities.

8. How can we stay informed?

• Radio stations that specialize in 24-hour news and information are your best source for up-to-date traffic and weather advisories during major events.
• Inexpensive weather monitors are also recommended, especially those that activate when the National Weather Service sends out special weather statements.
• Local events, such as parades, fairs, shows, etc. are announced via press releases to newspapers, radio and television stations well in advance of the event. Frequently, telephone numbers are listed for additional information.
• Gloucester Alert - Sign-up for Gloucester Alert
  • The Gloucester County Board of Chosen Commissioners has provided an "early warning system" which will allow residents and visitors of Gloucester County to sign up for, and receive various types of public alerts.
  • These alert messages will range from severe weather alerts, school closings, and road closures and will include the more serious alerts such as Homeland Security issues.
  • Gloucester Alert is available for use as of October 1, 2008.

9. Is there anything I should do to make sure emergency personnel can find me?

Most municipalities in Gloucester County have completed the process of renumbering rural or misnumbered addresses and renamed most duplicate streets in their respective areas. The purpose of this is to assist emergency services in locating your residence as quickly as possible. This will also assist mail and parcel delivery services in your area. Be sure to make your house number visible from the street, to assist emergency vehicles in finding you faster.

10. Where can I get more information about 911?

The Gloucester County Emergency Response Center is available to tour groups such as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, school groups, etc. The Center has been host to many groups in the past. We also have speakers available for group presentations at your meetings or gatherings. Please call 856-307-7100 to schedule a tour or to arrange for a speaker.