Don't Be a Victim: 911 Calls

WSVN -- It's the three numbers you hope you never have to dial.

A deadly fire, car accident, medical emergency or home invasion -- in 911 centers across the nation, they have heard it all.

Coral Gables Police Lt. Mike Frevola says knowing how to talk to a 911 operator can mean the difference between life and death.

There are some simple rules to follow.

First: 911 should be the first call you make when something bad happens.

Lt. Mike Frevola: "What happens a lot of times is if you get victimized, you'll call your wife first or your husband, your significant other. Call us first, let us start getting to you. Then you can make those calls."

Lt. Frevola says it works like this: The moment you get a 911 operator on the phone, the first thing they need to know is where's the emergency.

Lt. Mike Frevola: "Remember where you are. If you are in a car accident, try to see which street you are in."

Then the 911 operator is going to ask a lot of questions.

There's a reason.

Lt. Michael Frevola: "The more information we can provide to our officers or our fire people the better information they have to better serve you."

So, if you were robbed, officers responding to the scene are going to want details. Remember to be a good witness.

Lt. Michael Frevola: "Try to remember if you saw a vehicle. Try to remember what the offender was wearing, how tall he was."

He says be assured, the information you provide is sent automatically to the computer monitor in the patrol car, as well as broadcast through all police and fire radios.

Lt. Michael Frevola: "A lot of times people think that when they are being asked all these questions, that the police units or fire units aren't coming. Our units are already on their way, so don't think that we are not sending you people by talking to you."

The hardest and most important thing to remember: Stay calm and focused. It can ultimately make all the difference.