Public Education

9-1-1 Public Education is an effort to inform the public about how 9-1-1 works, what happens when calling 9-1-1 and the importance of using 9-1-1 during emergencies.

Know your location when calling 9-1-1.  When calling 9-1-1 the phone systems (cellular, VOIP and landline) are designed to provide your location to the dispatcher.  But there are limitations. 

Cellular phones may initially tell the dispatcher your location within a few feet or a few miles.  Cellular location accuracy is impacted by the number cellular sites your phone can access at the time of the call, the quality of cellular connection (weak signal versus strong signal) and does your phone have a data connection. VOIP telephone service depends on the account holder entering the address correctly.  VOIP telephone service can be moved and relies on the customer to update their address (accurately) so the accurate address is shared during a call to 9-1-1.

Know your location when calling 9-1-1 to ensure emergency responders can find you quickly.

Video: 911 Know Your Location


How does text to 9-1-1 work?

Our Public Education Coordinator is available to meet with your group or classroom to present how the 9-1-1 system works and what to expect when you call 9-1-1 to report an emergency.  To schedule a 9-1-1 presentation contact us 509-422-7232 opt 4 or ocso@co.okanogan.wa.us and asked for the Public Education Coordinator.

Washington State Enhanced 9-1-1 Program Office resources