Why do 911 operators ask so many questions?

Experience has shown the first 60 seconds of every 911 call are the most critical. Operators need to determine:

  • The exact location of the emergency
  • The nature of the situation
  • What elements a responding officer should be advised of
  • Whether anyone is injured

A first-responder armed with this information can react quickly and accurately and minimize the chance that further damage will occur or innocent bystanders will be hurt.

Contact Us

In any threatening emergency, immediately dial 911 from any telephone (the call is free from all pay phones). For non-emergency law enforcement needs, please call the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office at 435-438-2862.

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1. How do I contact Dispatch for non-emergency issues?
2. How can I add my cellphone or unlisted phone number to Beaver County's AlertSense system so I can receive emergency notifications?
3. What’s unusual about calling 911 from a cell phone?
4. Why do 911 operators ask so many questions?