Seconds count during an emergency. Everyone needs to use 911 properly to get quick help during a fire, medical emergency or a crime.

This is especially true for children. They can, and must be taught how to correctly use the 911 system to save a life.

The following are guidelines on how to correctly use the 911 system to save a life:

Always. . .

• Call from a safe location. If the house is on fire, get out first and then call from a nearby telephone.
• Teach children their full name and address. And always post your full address near your home phone.
• Teach children to remain as calm as possible when speaking with the 911 operator so they can get the correct information to send help.
• Wait until the 911 operator tells you it is okay to hang up the telephone. It is common for 911 operators to keep young callers on the line until help arrives. 911 operators are also trained to provide life saving directions to callers during medical emergencies.
• If you call 911 by mistake, don't hang up. Tell the 911 operator there is no emergency and you dialed by accident. If you hang up before speaking with the operator, they could send emergency crews to your location needlessly.

Never. . .

• Never call 911 as a joke or prank. You can get into serious trouble. More importantly, you can delay someone else getting the help they need in an emergency.
• Never hang up the telephone until the 911 operator tells you it is okay to do so.
• Never call 911 for animal emergencies. Call police department non-emergency number for assistance.
• Never 911 for noisy neighbors, loud music, or barking dogs. Again, call your local police department.