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1. Does your 9-1-1 Communications Center have the ability to assist someone who doesn't speak English?

Yes. The Pueblo 9-1-1 Communications Center utilizes Language Line Translation Service to translate 9-1-1 calls from non-English speaking callers. Language Line is capable of translating over 170 spoken languages from all over the world. With the touch of a single button, the 9-1-1 telecommunicator connects the caller with this service and remains on the line, taking the information as the translator mediates the call. The use of this service saves a great deal of time and assures that the most accurate information possible is obtained from the caller.

2. In an emergency, what can I do to assist 9-1-1 in getting me the help I need?

Remain calm and be prepared to answer a few questions. Remember, you are not delaying help by answering these questions. In fact, you are ensuring that you receive the help that you need.

Take the time to explain to your children when to dial 9-1-1 and when not to. Let them know that calling 9-1-1 for fun is not allowed. Also make sure that they know their address and phone number. Even though this information is provided on every 9-1-1 call, the 9-1-1 telecommunicators will still confirm that the information provided is correct to make sure that emergency crews are able to find you.

Do not call 9-1-1 for non-emergency situations, such as inconveniences (power outages, phone numbers, or directions). These calls tie up the 9-1-1 telecommunicators and could delay them from helping someone with a true emergency.

3. Can I text 9-1-1 during an emergency?

Not yet. However, in a bid to bring the life-saving emergency service 9-1-1 into the 21st century, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is looking at letting citizens report crimes through text messages and even stream video from their mobile phones to emergency centers.

Currently, 9-1-1 systems in Colorado are not yet designed to handle text messages, multimedia messages, or streaming video, all of which could be very helpful to first responders. However, before moving to the new Pueblo Municipal Justice Center in April 2010, the City of Pueblo upgraded their 9-1-1 system to the state-of-the-art Viper System. When network technology and Colorado legislation allows, the Pueblo 9-1-1 Communications Center will be able to receive 9-1-1 calls via text message.