Emergency service operators have extremely demanding and high-stress jobs. People’s lives are literally at stake every time the phone rings on the desks of these hard-working individuals and they don’t often get the credit they deserve. It’s not that they’re not appreciated. It’s just that once that call is made and the police, ambulance, or fire department is dispatched, the focus goes to the heroic efforts that go on at the scene. However, it’s truly the 9-1-1 operators who are the first responders, and we love finding stories about these folks who make a difference and get the credit they deserve. The story below has been circulating on social media and is a perfect example of an emergency service operator whose quick thinking probably saved a life.
“911, where is your emergency?”
“123 Main St.”
“Ok, what’s going on there?”
“I’d like to order a pizza for delivery.” (Oh great, another prank call).
“Ma’am, you’ve reached 911”
“Yeah, I know. Can I have a large with half pepperoni, half mushroom and peppers?”
“Ummm…. I’m sorry, you know you’ve called 911 right?”
“Yeah, do you know how long it will be?”
“Ok, Ma’am, is everything ok over there? Do you have an emergency?”
“Yes, I do.”
“..And you can’t talk about it because there’s someone in the room with you?” (Moment of realization)
“Yes, that’s correct. Do you know how long it will be?”
“I have an officer about a mile from your location. Are there any weapons in your house?”
“Nope.”
“Can you stay on the phone with me?”
“Nope. See you soon, thanks.”
As we dispatch the call, I check the history at the address, and see there are multiple previous domestic violence calls. The officer arrives and finds a couple, female was kind of banged up, and boyfriend was drunk. Officer arrests him after she explains that the boyfriend had been beating her for a while. I thought she was pretty clever to use that trick. Definitely one of the most memorable calls.
The relief that must have flooded over her when I realized what was actually happening is something I could feel from the call.
