911 Information

9-1-1 is the universal emergency number that you can use 24 hours a day for Police, Fire, or Emergency Medical Services.

When to Use 9-1-1

9-1-1 should be used whenever there is immediate danger to life or property. It should be called to report fires, crimes in progress, or medical emergencies.

Call From Any Phone

9-1-1 can be dialed from any home, business, coin or cellular phone. It is always a free call.

Some locations, such as businesses, require a 1 or 2 digit access number to get an outside line before you can dial 9-1-1. Be sure that you learn the access number if one is required at your workplace.

Answering the Call

Your 9-1-1 call will be answered by a professional telecommunicator trained in handling 9-1-1 emergency calls.

How to Answer Questions Asked

You will be asked what your emergency is and the location where you need assistance. You should remain calm, and speak clearly and slowly. Some examples:

  • I need the fire department at 123 Main Street, my house is on fire.
  • I need the police at 123 Main Street, someone's breaking into my neighbor's house.
  • I need the emergency squad at 123 Main Street, there is a man having a heart attack.

Note: You should always include the name of the county/town you are in, not your post office.

Things Not to Call For

Power outages, traffic conditions, weather reports, school closings, along with calls to request information about special events and municipal services schedules are some examples of calls that shouldn't be made to 9-1-1 and non-emergency services telephone lines.

Extreme weather conditions, holidays and major events increase demands on all emergency service agencies. In times like these, you can do your part in safeguarding your communications lifeline by keeping telephone lines and emergency services personnel clear and available to handle true emergencies from you and neighboring communities.

Staying Informed

Radio stations that specialize in 24-hour news and information are your best source for up-to-date traffic and weather advisories during major events. Inexpensive weather monitors are also recommended, especially those that activate when the National Weather Service sends out special weather statements.

Local events, such as parades, fairs, shows, etc. are announced via press releases to newspapers, radio and television stations well in advance of the event. Frequently, telephone numbers are listed for additional information.

Help Emergency Personnel Find You

Be sure to make your house number visible from the street, to assist emergency vehicles in finding you faster. We recommend reflective numbers to make your address more visible at night.

More Information

The Queen Anne’s County 911 Center is available to tour groups such as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, school groups, etc. The center has been host to many groups in the past. We also have speakers available for group presentations at your meetings or gatherings. Please call 410-758-4500 in advance to schedule a tour or to arrange for a speaker.