Before help arrives
Calling 911 — What to Say
Four things that get help to you fast.
1
Where you are
Your address plus the nearest cross-street, floor, unit, or landmark. This matters most — they can't help if they can't find you.
2
What happened
Keep it simple: "someone collapsed," "a bad fall," "trouble breathing."
3
How many and who
How many people are hurt, and roughly their age and condition.
4
What you're doing
"I'm doing CPR," "I'm pressing on a wound." They'll coach you through it.
5
Stay on the line
Put the phone on speaker, keep your hands free, and don't hang up until they tell you to.
The dispatcher is on your side — they’ll stay with you until help arrives.