9-1-1 Wireless

In 1996, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issued an order requiring implementation of a new Enhanced 9-1-1 system for wireless phone carriers nationwide. 

In 2002, the state of Massachusetts created a Wireless Enhanced  9-1-1 Fund for this purpose, with a surcharge of $.30 per month.  This surcharge and fund are used solely to fund the implementation and administration of wireless Enhanced 9-1-1 in Massachusetts. 

In April 2003 the FCC required all wireless carriers to provide an emergency dispatcher with both the telephone number of the person calling and the location of the closest cell site or base station transmitting the call.  

In early 2006 Massachusetts completed the requirement that wireless carriers provide a more precise location to the dispatcher including the latitude and longitude of the caller (information must be accurate within 50-300 meters).
 

What You Need To Know About Calling 911 from Your Wireless Phone

When placing a call from your wireless phone, it is important to know your call is initially routed to the Massachusetts State Police and then transferred to the appropriate first responder.  It is essential to remember the following when calling 911 from a wireless phone:

Tell the emergency operator the location of the emergency right away.

·        Give the emergency operator your wireless phone number so that if the call gets disconnected, the operator can call you back. 

·        If your wireless phone is not “initialized” (I.e., if you have a pre-paid phone or any other type of wireless phone that does not have a contract for service with a wireless service provider), and your emergency call gets disconnected, you must call the emergency operator back because he or she does not have your telephone number and cannot contact you.

·         Refrain from programming your phone to automatically dial 911 when one button, such as the “9” key, is pressed. Unintentional wireless 911 calls, which often occur when auto-dial keys are inadvertently pressed, cause problems for emergency services call centers. 

·        If your wireless phone came preprogrammed with the auto-dial 911 feature already turned on, turn off this feature. Check your user manual to find out how. 

·        Lock your keypad when you’re not using your wireless phone. This action also prevents accidental calls to 911.

Being aware of all of this information will save valuable time during an emergency.
 

State Police are Eliminating *SP and *MSP:
Remind Motorists "9-1-1 SAVES LIVES"

The Massachusetts State Police and the State 911 Department would like to remind motorists to dial 9-1-1 for all roadway emergencies.  This is a fundamental cornerstone to ensuring a prompt emergency response of police, fire or EMS personnel.  When you dial 9-1-1 on your wireless phone, vital information is presented to State Police dispatch personnel, including your approximate location.  The dispatchers assess the information and notify the appropriate State Police barracks or the local authorities of jurisdiction.