Calling 9-1-1 from different types
of phones

USING A HOME or SIMPLE BUSINESS PHONE

When you call 9-1-1 from a basic wireline/landline phone,
the phone number and location you are calling from automatically display on a screen at the communications center. If you are unable to give your location, the calltaker will know where you are and can send help.

USING A CELLULAR PHONE

If you are dialing 9-1-1 from a wireless phone carrier your location information may not be provided to emergency operators. Please be prepared to provide your exact location if you are dialing 9-1-1 from one of these phones.

• Most cellphone calls can be traced to the nearest cell tower, but it is helpful if you can tell the 9-1-1 calltaker your specific location. Check for nearby building addresses or street signs. If you call
  9-1-1 from home but use a cellphone, your address will not be visible on the calltaker's screen.

• Always lock the keypad when not in use to avoid accidental 9-1-1 calls. You may also want to consider deactivating any one-button function keys to dial 9-1-1, especially if you have a non-flip style phone.

• If you do accidentally call 9-1-1, please don't hang up. Stay on the line and tell the dispatcher you misdialed.

• Do not leave your cellphone where it can be accessed by children. Do not allow old cellphones to be used as toys; cellphones without a service plan will still dial 911.

Additional information is available on the
King County E-911 Program Website

USING INTERNET or BROADBAND (VoIP) PHONE

If you are dialing 9-1-1 from a non-traditional phone carrier your location information may not be provided to emergency operators. Please be prepared to provide your exact location if you are dialing 9-1-1 from one of these phones. Before signing up for a VoIP/Broadband Phone, we encourage you to read all 9-1-1 information so you clearly understand the
9-1-1 capabilities of VoIP/Broadband Phone service.

Additional information is available on the
King County E-911 Program Website

USING A BUSINESS PHONE EXTENSION

Obtain an outside line (usually by dialing “9”)
Then dial 9-1-1. Remember, your location information may not accurately display from these phones.

USING A PUBLIC PAY PHONE

All 9-1-1 calles from public payphones are free. Just lift the receiver and dial 9-1-1 to be connected.

DID YOU KNOW?

Cellphones without a service plan will still dial 9-1-1.

Accidental misdialings from cell-phones are a growing problem, and can tie up emergency lines. Please take precautions to prevent this.