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Home > Using 9-1-1

Using 9-1-1

Here in Maine, 9-1-1 is available from traditional wire line phones, cell phones, and all payphones.

Dial 9-1-1 in an emergency--when police, fire, or medical services are needed right away in order to save a life, report a fire or stop a crime.

How to you use 9-1-1

  • Dial the numbers 9-1-1 from a safe place.
  • Wait for a calltaker to answer
  • State the emergency.
  • The calltaker will confirm your name, address and phone number.
  • Remain calm, speak clearly and follow any instructions.
  • Stay on the line until the calltaker says to hang up.

From a traditional wire line phone, Enhanced 9-1-1 automatically displays the caller's address and telephone number at the emergency call center. This allows call takers to quickly send emergency services, avoiding delays that could endanger a person's life or property.

Location of cellular phone callers is provided in the form of latitude and longitude coordinates. The availability of this service varies by carrier and phone type. Check to see if your carrier has completed Phase II. Then call your service provider to see if the phone you are using is Phase II compliant.

Download a copy of How to use Maine's 9-1-1 System (PDF, 1.9mb)

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