When to call 911
Calls to 9-1-1 should only be placed in the event of a life threatening emergency, a crime in progress, to report immediate traffic hazards or other safety hazards such as gas leaks or downed power lines.
The Enhanced 911 Emergency Telephone System's purpose is to provide citizens with a quick, easy to remember method of summoning help in the event of a life-threateneing emergency. The fire department, the police department and ambulance service can be summoned through the E-911 system.
When you call 9-1-1 from inside the City of Lima, your call is routed to the Lima Police Department where caller information is collected. This includes the name, address, and phone number of the person(s) who holds the telephone account from where the call is being placed from. This information is displayed on a small computer screen in the communications center. The communications operator can observe the name, address, and phone number where the call is originating from. This also works with public pay phones.
When NOT to call 911
The 9-1-1 system is not to be used for asking for information, reporting crimes that are not in progress, or requesting routine police assistance. Calls regarding water service, telephone repair, power outages or any other utility, with the exception of gas leaks or downed power lines, should be directed to the appropriate business during business hours. In the event of a major power outage, chances are good that the power company has already been notified by a citizen, employee, or the police or fire department. The police department rarely, if ever has any idea when power to your residence will be restored. In the event of a major disaster, DO NOT CALL 9-1-1 UNLESS YOU NEED EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE. Do not call 9-1-1 to inquire about road conditions, weather forecasts, school closures, or to find out why there is police department or fire department activity near your house.
Accidently dial 911??
When you call 9-1-1, the communications operator will receive your information, even if you hang up before the call is answered. This means if you accidentally dial 9-1-1, then hang up when you realize you made a mistake, the communications operator will call you back immediately to find out if there is a problem. If the line is busy or there is no answer, an officer will be sent to the address where the call originated. These procedures are followed as a safeguard in the event someone is trying to make a discreet call but is interrupted, or is unable to talk for various reasons. Should you dial 9-1-1 in error, please remain on the line and and tell the communications operator you made a mistake. By following these guidelines, you can help keep the emergency 9-1-1 system open and available so that help is quickly available to those who need it.