Wireless calls. What are they?

These are the phones commonly referred to as cell or mobile phones. Users should be aware that they do not provide the 911 center with the same information as your home phone. When you call 911 from a land line (home, business, payphone, etc.), the 911 operator receives your address, phone number and in whose name the phone is billed. This is not the case with mobile phones. Currently, phase one is being implemented in Greene County. This means the cellular companies are sending the calling phone number along with the 911 call. While we still may not know where you are located, we have a number in which to call you back. At some point, after phase one is completed, implementation will begin of phase two. Phase two will provide the phone number and an approximate location of the caller.

Remember, when calling 911 from a cell phone, know your location. We can talk to you, we have your phone number to call you back, but we can't get you help until we know where you are located.

Currently 60% of all 911 calls to our center are from wireless phones. Of this 60%, approximately 33% are accidental activations of emergency buttons on wireless phones. When a cell phone inadvertently calls 911, it takes up operator time that could be better used for an emergency situation. Please remember to lock down the keypad of your wireless phone when not in use.