Enhanced 911 Center

The Greene County 911 Center serves as the communications link between the public and the emergency responders serving Greene County. As the designated Public Safety Answering Point for all 911 calls for law enforcement services, emergency medical services, fire & rescue services, and other emergencies, the Greene County 911 Center dispatches the Greene County Sheriff’s Office, Greensboro Police Department, Greene County EMS, Greene County Fire Rescue, and the volunteer fire departments serving Greene County.

Connected Dispatch Services

Greene County’s 911 Center is also one of the few standalone, full-entry agencies in the state. In other words, the Greene County 911 Center handles dispatch services for the entire County, including:

  • Emergency Management Agency
  • Emergency Medical Services
  • Fire departments
  • Rescue units
  • Service agreements with surrounding counties
  • Sheriff’s Office
  • Greensboro Police Department

What is 9-1-1?

Nine-one-one is the number most people in the U.S. and some in International countries call to get help in a law enforcement, fire or medical emergency. A 9-1-1 call goes over dedicated phone lines to the 9-1-1 answering point closest to the caller, and trained personnel then send the emergency help needed.

What is Enhanced 9-1-1?

Enhanced 9-1-1 or E9-1-1 is a system which routes an emergency call to the 9-1-1 center closest to the caller AND automatically displays the caller’s phone number and address. The 9-1-1 call taker will typically ask the caller to verify the information that appears on his/her computer screen. 

Is a Person Hurt or in Danger?  Do you Need Law Enforcement, Fire or an Ambulance?

Have you ever wondered whether or not to call 9-1-1? Since 9-1-1 is for emergencies only, it helps to understand when to call 9-1-1 and when not to call. An emergency is any serious situation where a law enforcement officer, firefighter or emergency medical help is needed right away. If you are unsure of whether your situation is an emergency, go ahead and call 9-1-1. The 9-1-1 call taker can determine if you need emergency assistance and provide proper direction.

If You Do Call 9-1-1, Even By Mistake, Do Not Hang Up the Phone!

If you happen to call by accident, stay on the line until you can tell the call taker that you called by accident and there is no emergency. This saves the call taker from having to call you back and confirm that there is no emergency or sending public safety agencies to check on your address for an emergency.

When Calling 9-1-1, Do Your Best To Stay Calm and Answer All Questions

Staying calm can be one of the most difficult, yet most important things that you can do when calling 9-1-1. It is very important that you stay as calm as possible and answer all of the questions the 9-1-1 call taker asks. The questions that a 9-1-1 call taker asks, no matter how relevant they seem to you, are important in helping get the first responders to you as fast as possible.

Why Does 9-1-1 Ask So Many Questions?

Most of the questions that are asked help to understand the assistance that is needed and by answering them, it helps the call taker understand your situation and will assist you with your emergency until the appropriate law enforcement, fire or medical units arrive.  Answering these questions to the best of your ability help get the best help needed in the quickest amount of time. These questions help the first responders or law enforcement stay knowledgeable about the scene and some of the questions are required by law.

Should I Teach My Children How to Call 9-1-1?

Be sure they know what 9-1-1 is, how to dial from your home and cell phone, and to trust the 9-1-1 call taker. Make sure your child is physically able to reach at least one phone in your home. When calling 9-1-1 your child needs to know their name, parent’s name, telephone number, and most importantly their address. Tell them to answer all the call takers questions and to stay on the phone until instructed to hang up.

Are Prank Calls To 9-1-1 Really Illegal?

Yes. Prank calls are a waste of time, resources and are against the law. Be sure all members of your household are aware that prank or harassing calls to 9-1-1 will be dealt with by local law enforcement agencies.

Should I Really Post My Address, Don’t You Know Where I Live?

Clearly and prominently posting your 9-1-1 address at the driveway entrance and on your home will alleviate any confusion as to whether emergency responders have the correct location. Try using something reflective or illuminated so that it can be seen in the evening as well as during the day.