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Help! 911! Can you hear me now? |
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Written by Hambaba
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Tuesday, 09 January 2007 |
Technology, where are in you in an emergency? Despite all the
improvements in 911 technology much of the United States is still not
well equipped to locate calls from cell phones. This a huge risk for a
growing population using cell phones as a primary source of
communication. It has been a decade since the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) began mandating wireless Enhanced 911 (E911) services.
Unfortunately, nearly half of US territory is still without 911 call
centers that can locate wireless callers. What you know before you call
911 can help you tremendously in an emergency situation so here are
some things to remember.
Tips for calling 911 with your Cell Phone
1. Presence of Mind
What better moment to test your presence of mind than through an emergency. Though unpleasant, many emergency situations can be safely overcome with calm and awareness. While calling 911 dispatch there might be several unanswered rings but don't hang up so soon because dispatch might be overloaded and switching your call to another call center. Try 911 again if you get a busy signal, dropped call, or poor voice quality. Try to use the same phone at the same location or if your are having trouble with reception, move to an area with a stronger signal and stay there.
2. Know Your Location
When you reach an operator through your cell phone will most probably be asked for your location. Provide the information as clearly possible. If you are not in a familiar area try to state local major landmarks (restaurants, stores, Malls, etc). The more accurate the information the better, especially, if your location is not easily traceable.
3. Be Concise
A key factor in any emergency is time so provide the best information in a few words. Always remember quality over quantity.
4. Possible GPS
Currently available on some advanced phones are homing devices to track a phone's location. Such services are mostly on CDMA carriers such as Sprint (Family Locator), Disney mobile which uses Sprint's network and Verizon (Chaperone).
5. Preset Text Emergency Message
Many cell phones now come with preset messages. Create an emergency text message. Here are some examples, "Help call 911!". Send the message in to individuals that will be able to help you no matter what.
These tips will save lives. Have more emergency safety tips? Let us know.
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Tips
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