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1. When should I call 9-1-1?

Use 9-1-1 to save a life, report a fire or stop a crime. 9-1-1 is for emergencies that are an immediate threat to life and property.

2. How does my call get to 9-1-1?

From your house or business phone, your address will determine which Emergency Communication Center you reach. Calling from a cell phone makes a difference. Cell phones are not associated with a specific address so we do not immediately know where you are. They transmit to the nearest cellular tower and from there to the pre-designated Emergency Communication Center.

• You may reach an Emergency Communication Center that is not in the city you are in. If this happens you will be transferred to the proper Emergency Communication Center.
• If you are calling from a cell phone, your call may be disconnected if the signal is lost. Be sure to call back if you are cut off.
• When calling 9-1-1 on a cell phone, be sure to stop if you are in a moving vehicle. It is difficult to obtain all the information needed if you are getting further from the emergency

Special Note: Even deactivated cell phones can dial 9-1-1. It is especially important that if you give a child an old phone to play with as a toy, that you remove the battery prior to doing so. If you don't, the child will inadvertently dial 9-1-1, tying up the emergency lines.

3. Can I communicate with 9-1-1 if I am hearing or speech impaired?

Yes. If you are hearing or speech impaired, Hampton Emergency Communication Center is equipped with a Text Telephone (TTY) device to allow communications through your TTY device. We also use Virginia Relay Service. If you do not speak English, we can conference in a third party interpretation service that can help us communicate with you.