When To Call 9-1-1
Call 9-1-1 when it is an emergency and a prompt response is needed. Call 9-1-1 if it is a life-threatening situation, or something is occurring at the time of the call. Fire, medical problems, fight, traffic accident, or any situation that could result in loss of life or major property loss should be called in to 9-1-1.
When You Call 9-1-1
When you call 9-1-1, a 9-1-1 dispatcher will ask: "where is your emergency?" You will be asked questions which call takers are trained to ask. Questions could include:
What is your emergency?
What is the location of the emergency?
Where are you calling from?
What is your name?
Please do not assume that the dispatcher has this information in the computer. All facts need to be verified to ensure prompt response.
Stay on the Line
Staying on the line does not interfere with the ability of the dispatcher to dispatch help, and it will not delay the response.
The dispatcher may need you to stay on the line to help direct emergency personnel to the right location, or to provide additional assistance that can help ensure your emergency is handled correctly. If it is possible, do not hang up the phone until the 9-1-1 dispatcher says it is okay to hang up.
When to Call the Non-Emergency Number
The non-emergency number for the Washington County Sheriff's Department is 812-883-5999. Using the non-emergency number keeps the 9-1-1 lines available for true emergencies.
Examples of when to call the non-emergency number:
Life or property is not in immediate danger
Your runaway child has returned home
You need to add additional information to a report already worked by Law Enforcement
Hearing Impaired 9-1-1 Callers
All 9-1-1 PSAPs (Public Safety Answering Points) in the State of Indiana are required to have TDD capability for communication with hearing and speech-impaired persons. Each console is equipped to answer calls from the Hearing Impaired public.
Cellular Phones
Cellular phones can call 9-1-1 as a free call. Limited location information is provided; therefore, the dispatcher is dependent upon the caller to provide location information, roadway, direction of travel, etc.
Accidental 9-1-1 Calls
If you accidentally call 9-1-1, DON'T HANG UP. The 9-1-1 Dispatcher will verify that you do not have an emergency and then will disconnect with you. If you hang up, the dispatcher will have to attempt to make contact with you to make this verification.
Text Calls
You can reach 9-1-1 via text if you are unable to speak to the dispatcher directly for whatever reason. You will have to provide the location of the emergency and the details of the emergency through text. Because phone contact is a much better way to communicate, please use this option only if you are unable to speak due to danger or injury.