9-1-1 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
How does 9-1-1 work in the Twin Cities Metro area or greater Minnesota?
When you dial 9-1-1 from anywhere in the state your call is routed to the proper police, fire or ambulance dispatch center for the location from which you are calling. There are several 9-1-1 Communication Centers in the metro area alone.
Does it have to be an emergency to call 9-1-1?
No, it does not have to be an emergency. It is appropriate to call 9-1-1 when you need a response to your location from police, fire or ambulance service vehicles or personnel.
Does calling 9-1-1 mean that you will get an immediate response?
Almost, 9-1-1 calls are usually answered 6 - 12 seconds after you call. About the first 5 - 6 seconds, there'll be total silence on your phone; don't hang-up thinking the call isn't going through. However, Police, fire and ambulance dispatchers prioritize calls based on level of urgency and resources available so calling 9-1-1 may not provide you with an immediate response to your location depending upon the nature of other calls presently being received.
What if you don’t need a response?
If you need information, please call 3-1-1.
Are calls from pay phones free?
Yes. You can dial 9-1-1 from any pay phone without depositing a coin.
Does 9-1-1 work from cellular phones?
Yes, however, the 9-1-1 center answering your call will not know your exact location and sometimes will not know your phone number, so you must help them locate you. And, if you are calling from near a highway, your call may first be routed to the Minnesota State Patrol.
Does 9-1-1 work with poison control?
If someone has ingested a poisonous substance, call 9-1-1. The dispatcher will notify the appropriate response agency. If necessary, your call will be connected with the Poison Control Center. If you only need information about poisons, call the number listed in your telephone directory for Poison Control.
What if the caller does not speak English?
MECC employees can get a translator on the line within seconds once the language spoken is identified. It is important that non-English speaking callers attempt to relay the language spoken. Translators are available for 150 languages.
Where can I call to report a suspected drug house?
f drug dealing is going on outdoors on the street, call 9-1-1. If you suspect a drug house but don’t actually see drug dealing, call your local precinct or 3-1-1.
How do I get a job at Minneapolis Emergency Communications Center?
Employment opportunities occur regularly at MECC. For information on positions available and job entry requirements, contact the Minneapolis Human Resources Department at (612) 673-2292 or find Minneapolis job openings online.
Why does the 9-1-1 Operator ask so many questions during a 9-1-1 call?
The 9-1-1 Operator needs to ask questions to determine what is happening and where it is happening. While the questions may seem unnecessary, the information helps them get the right responders to your location as quickly as possible. Remember that help can be sent while the operator is on the line with the caller.
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