911 - Cell Phones

[ozzy6900]

Originally Posted by d26

Take the time to find out what the non-911 emergency number is for each locality. Calling 911 from a cell phone may route your call to a central dispatch, and that dispatcher would then have to relay the information to the local area.

For instance, in my area 911 on a cell phone goes to the highway patrol dispatch center, with that person transferring/relaying the call to the locality. Having a direct number can save precious time... and don't forget to pre-program the area code for those who travel.

At least here, the non-911 number is ###-0911.

This is very bad advise!

I work for SBC/AT&T and we handle 911 equipment and line troubles in my department. If you are on a cell phone you have no ALI (Automatic Line Identification) associated with your cell phone. This is the location of your phone and it is only available on your land line at this time. the line number (ANI) is there but it is useless information as the ANI of a cell phone is attached to the provider of the cell service.

The Cell Answering Station (usually the State Police) can also triangulate your location if your cell phone provides the signal. Most of the local 911 PSAP's (Public Service Answering Positions) cannot do this.

Simply put, if you have an emergency, follow the direction of the area you are in. If it says dial 911 on the cell phone - follow the directions!