Using 9-1-1 with Cell Phones

• It is important for you to know that when you make a 9-1-1 call from your wireless/cellular phone, the call is answered at the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center and that the dispatchers do not receive the phone number or your location.



• Be prepared to provide your wireless/cellular phone number and to provide a good description of your location or surroundings.



• TDD/TTY users have direct access to the Gahanna Police Dispatch Center and all emergency services from a wired telephone line using TDD/TTY.

When should I Use 9-1-1?

• To Stop a Crime
• To Report a Fire
• To Save a Life



• You should call 9-1-1 any time you believe there is an actual emergency. If you are unsure, call 9-1-1 and the dispatcher will determine how best to help you.


An Emergency is:

• Any serious medical problem (chest pain, seizure, serious bleeding)
• Any type of Fire
• Any life threatening situation (fight, person with weapons, suicide threat)

For non-emergencies, use the appropriate phone number listed to the right.

DO's & DON'Ts of 9-1-1

Do not program 9-1-1 into your telephone speed dial.
Doing this may cause accidental dialing and, you won't forget the number.

Do not dial 9-1-1 to test your phone.

Do not hang up if you accidentally dial 9-1-1.
Stay on the line and explain to the dispatcher that you dialed by mistake and that you do not have an emergency.

Do briefly describe the type of incident you are reporting when the dispatcher answers

Do let the dispatcher ask you questions and answer them as best you can.

City of Gahanna Emergency Operations Plan