911 Director Discusses Emergency Calls

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By Marlana Smith

Shelby County 911 Director Lori Miles has friendly reminders when making an emergency call.

  If/when an emergency happens, call 911 immediately, do not call a friend or family member and have them call in the emergency.

  “Time is waisted with this,” said Miles, “Information is always more accurate first hand instead of second or third.”

  It is important to remain calm when answering questions from the dispatcher. This will help provide the most accurate location and information.

  Miles said the department has been receiving several 911 hang-up calls. She said most of the time it is determined they are from cell phones where the caller has pocket dialed, or accidentally called 911 and tried to hang up before the call goes through. The hang-up calls still go to the 911 office even after the caller hangs up.

  Director Miles wants to inform the public to stay on the phone and let the call be answered.

  “Let the dispatcher know it was an accident and that you do not have an emergency. Otherwise, our policy is to call the person back,” Miles continued, “If they do not answer we will send an officer to the location of the call that we have been given by the phone company.”

  Miles wants to remind the community not to give their old or deactivated cell phones to a young child to play with. Even though the phone is no longer able to make a regular phone call, they can still call 911. If the old phone has a battery, it should be removed.

  Director Miles said it is that time of year when landowners will start burning their fields. When doing controlled burns, landowners should call 911 first to give them the location and contact information.

  “Don’t hesitate to call, every emergency is important to us. Our goal is to give you the best response and service we can,” said Miles.