Tips for VoIP Customers

Before you need 9-1-1:

• Verify that you can access 9-1-1 with your phone. Check your service provider’s Web site for emergency calling features.

• Be sure to activate the emergency calling feature of your service plan, if applicable.

• If the power is out, your VoIP service may be out too. Consider purchasing a backup power supply.

• If you travel with your VoIP adapter, it may not work for making 9-1-1 calls. Call from another phone.

• Inform children, babysitters, and visitors about your VoIP service.

• Post your address and call back phone number near your phone.

• Know the 9-1-1 center that should receive your call and its general access phone number.

• Consider keeping a landline phone for accessing 9-1-1 emergency services.

• Burglar alarms, fax machines, satellite TV, and Tivo Digital Video Recorders often rely on analog modems. Check with your VoIP provider to determine if their service supports analog modems.
  

Tips for All 9-1-1 Callers

• Try to stay calm, dial 9-1-1

• Give the location of your emergency and your call back number

• Tell what type of help is needed (police, fire, ambulance)

• Stay on the line and answer 9-1-1 dispatcher's questions

• Don’t hang up until the call is complete