911

What is it?

The Parkersburg Police Department and other community response agencies are dispatched by the Wood County Central Dispatch Center. Most citizens refer to it as the "911 Center".

A central dispatch and 911 number allow a caller to connect with a minimum of delay in times of emergency.

The Central Dispatch concept allows dispatchers to coordinate several different agencies at the same incident with a minimum of effort.

"911" is an excellent program, but like all programs, it's only as good as the information put into it.

In Case of an Emergency

When calling 911:

Speak calmly and clearly - the operator will have to ask some questions, but the actual number of them can be reduced if you stay calm and tell the dispatcher, "I want to report a ...rape, shooting, robbery, etc."

Be patient - again the operator will need to ask some questions, like:

a. Where did this happen
b. When did it happen
c. Are the suspects still there
d. Do they have weapons and
e. Is anyone hurt?

Your response to these questions are very important to responding agencies.

Make 911 Work for You

Don't hesitate to call back if the situation changes or you get additional information.

Don't be afraid to teach young children how to use the phone for emergencies and stress the seriousness of the 911 system. Tell them if they need help to call. Post the number near every telephone.

Finally, don't hesitate to call authorities about suspicious behavior. In these times of uncertainty and increased vigilance, we must pay attention to our surroundings and alert the police when something doesn't appear normal.

Don't hesitate to call 911 if your suspicions are aroused, even if the suspicious person turns out to be legitimately in the area. Anyone watching or living in the area will know that its citizens will call about unusual activities - this makes the area unattractive to criminals of all types.