[Gurnee, IL] – Everyone knows that 9-1-1 is a universal number that should be called in the event of an emergency...or do they? 9-1-1 Centers all over the United States have encountered hurdles when educating the public about 9-1-1 and its uses. That’s why during the month of April, as part of National 9-1-1 Education Month, the Gurnee Police Department is urging all educational organizations, parents, and caregivers to assist with the “9-1-1 Education Challenge.” In April, our goal will be to educate as many people on 9-1-1, it uses, its challenges, and its future capabilities. The Gurnee 9-1-1 Center will have educational materials available for organizations to utilize and there are 9-1-1 Public Education Instructors available for teaching at organizations for the challenge during the month.

“With all the advances in technology, 9-1-1 has become much more complex. What started out as a simple concept has grown into an amazing infrastructure that needs crucial attention,” said Gurnee Police Chief Robert Jones.

In 2009, the Gurnee 9-1-1 Center received approximately 18,166 calls on 9-1-1 for emergencies.

Children and adults should have a good understanding of 9-1-1 and how it works in their area. Chief Jones said that although 9-1-1 is available throughout the state, there are many different levels of sophistication within the equipment and resources available at each 9-1-1 answering point.
Some general guidelines for 9-1-1 are:

• 9-1-1 is for police, fire and medical emergencies.
• Know the location of the incident. Providing an accurate address is critically important - especially when making a wireless 9-1-1 call.
• If you call 9-1-1, don’t hang up.
• Don’t call 9-1-1 for jokes or prank calls.
• When you call 9-1-1, pay attention to the questions that you are being asked.
• Stay on the line with the 9-1-1 call taker and answer all questions. The more information they have, the better they are able to help you.
• Stay calm and speak clearly.
• For further questions or for additional information, contact your local 9-1-1 Center.
   

Additional information regarding the 9-1-1 Education Challenge and 9-1-1 resources is available at www.IL911info.org.
 

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