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1. How does 911 work in Minnesota?

When you dial 911 from anywhere in the state your call is routed to the proper police, fire or ambulance dispatch center for the location from which you are calling.

2. Does calling 911 mean that you will get an immediate response?

No, police, fire and ambulance prioritize calls based on level of urgency and resources available so calling 911 may not provide you with an immediate response depending upon the nature of other calls being received.

3. Does it have to be an emergency to call 911?

No, it does not have to be an emergency. It is appropriate to call 911 when you need a response from police, fire or ambulance service.

4. Does 911 work with poison control?

If someone has ingested a poisonous substance, call 911. The dispatcher will notify the appropriate rescue squad and ambulance service. If necessary, your call will be connected with the Poison Control Center. If you need information about poisons, call the number listed in your telephone directory for Poison Control.

5. Why does the 911 operator ask so many questions during a 911 call?

The 911 operator is required to ask a variety of questions to appropriately ascertain what is happening and where it is happening. While the questions may seem unnecessary, the information they obtain will help to appropriately classify the call and get responders to the correct location as quickly as possible. Remember that help can be sent while the operator is on the line with the caller.