Children should be taught to call 9-1-1 for police, fire or medical help. The sight-impaired can use the digits, 9-1-1 on the telephone, or use a preprogrammed speed dial button. The hearing-impaired can use a TDD machine.

To call 9-1-1 from a home phone or a simple business phone, pick up the phone and press the numbers, 9-1-1. To call 9-1-1 from a Centrex or PBX business extension, obtain an outside line (usually with "9"), and then press the numbers, 9-1-1. To call 9-1-1 from a pay phone, no money is needed; simply press the numbers 9-1-1. To call 9-1-1 from a cellular phone or mobile phone, press the numbers 9-1-1.

NO LOCATION INFORMATION WILL BE DISPLAYED TO THE DISPATCHER! If you are calling from a cell phone in Hernando County your call may be answered by an operator in Pasco or Citrus County. You must indicate specifically where you are calling from to be transferred to the proper agency.

When you call 9-1-1 in Hernando County, a Sheriffs Telecommunicator takes your information, and then either dispatches a deputy, or transfers your call to the appropriate police, fire and/or emergency medical team located in your area. You will be asked questions about your emergency. This does not slow down the response times of the emergency vehicles. While you are being asked important information, another dispatcher is sending the units to you. Try to answer all the questions as best you can. If you have a medical need, Pre-arrival instructions will be given by an Emergency Medical Dispatcher until help arrives.

9-1-1 is only a telephone number. Quick response depends on the vital information which you provide. Remain calm and speak clearly. Tell the 9-1-1 dispatcher: Where is the location? What is happening? The 9-1-1 dispatcher will then ask you more questions. Provide answers as best you can.

9-1-1 is not for jokes ... it is for Life Threatening Emergencies! Post your address, phone number and nearest cross street by each telephone so any (baby-sitter, friend, visitor and family members) will be able to give the vital information needed for quick response. Your house number needs to be visible from the street or clearly posted where your driveway joins the main road. 9-1-1 is not for information; such as road or weather conditions, area power outages, or directions.

 Non-Emergency Numbers

Hernando County Sheriffs Office....................................754-6850

Brooksville Police Department.......................................754-6800

Brooksville Fire Department...........................................544-5445

Spring Hill Fire Rescue..................................................688-5030

Florida Regional EMS....................................................754-8991

(Ambulance Service Outside of Spring Hill Fire Rescue District)

Northwest Hernando Fire District..................................596-2444

East Hernando Fire District..........................................754-4470

Hernando Beach Volunteer Fire Department...............596-0555

Northeast Volunteer Fire District..................................799-5212

(Previously Tri-County Volunteer Fire Dept)

High Point Volunteer Fire Department..........................596-5338

Emergency Management..............................................754-4083

American Red Cross.....................................................799-3237

Oak Hill Hospital...........................................................596-6632

Spring Hill Regional Hospital........................................688-8200