When you call 911 in Harford County to request emergency help, be prepared to answer the call taker's questions. The information is vital to first responders dispatched to the location.

• Remain as calm as possible. Take a deep breath and speak clearly.
• Tell the call taker the nature of the emergency - I NEED THE ... (i.e. Police, Fire Department or Ambulance).
• If your house is on fire, LEAVE the house first. Then call from a neighbor's phone or use your cell phone.
• Describe your location. What's the nearest cross street? If help is needed at another location, advise the call taker.
• If the emergency is taking place on a highway or interstate roadway, try to include the nearest mile marker in your description of the location.
• Answer all of the call taker's questions to the best of your ability. The answers will help the call taker/dispatcher determine what kind of emergency aid you need.
• Keep the answers short and to the point.
• Follow all instructions given to you by the call taker.
• Stay on then line until the call taker tells you to hang up.
• Turn on your outside lights and, if possible, send someone out to direct the responding emergency personnel onto your property.