911 Information

All requests for police service in South Fayette Township use 911. The department does not have a separate dispatch center.

Nearly everyone will have to use the emergency 911 service during their lifetime. When a person is not properly trained in responding to an emergency, then fear, panic, and doubt can take hold. Fortunately, training and applying some basic principles and procedures can help everyone respond properly during an emergency.

Maintain Control

When faced with an emergency situation, try to remain calm. Relax yourself for a moment by taking a deep breath to gain composure. Assess the situation, collect your thoughts, and understand what is happening. Ask yourself, "What must I do to help?" By concentrating on what you must do, you will avoid panic.

Time Is Critical

Time is extremely important and can make the difference between life and death. For example, when someone is not breathing, it takes only four minutes to die or for permanent brain damage to occur. Therefore you must respond immediately to an emergency situation. Never waste any time.

When Calling 911

  1. Know the location of the emergency and be as specific as possible.
  2. Specify the kind of emergency: police, fire or ambulance.
  3. Explain the specific emergency, such as a crime that has occurred or is about to occur, a house that is burning, a person who is unconscious, people who have suffered a traffic accident, etc.
  4. Say what is needed, such as police officers, firefighters, an ambulance, a utility company, a tow truck or any special equipment needs.
  5. State whether or not weapons are involved such as a gun or knife.
  6. Indicate the number of people involved to the best of your knowledge,plus their type of vehicles or direction of flight if applicable.
  7. Keep information factual, and do not exaggerate the situation. However, never be afraid to state the seriousness of the situation. Tell the 911 dispatcher what you do know, and if you don't know or are unsure, tell the dispatcher