Working as a police dispatcher is one of the most challenging yet rewarding careers out there. No matter the reason for the call, a dispatcher’s actions to each and every person can make a difference in someone’s life. Having broad shoulders and a good sense of humor are key to a successful career.  This week, many Police Departments are celebrating the week of April 10 as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.  This week honors the thousands of men and women who respond to emergency calls, dispatch emergency professionals and equipment, and render life-saving assistance to citizens.

In honor of our police dispatchers, here are some tips on how to call the police: For crimes in progress or life threatening situations, immediately call 911; when you call the police regarding a situation requiring police response, the police dispatcher will ask several questions similar to those listed below.

These questions are to ensure that the police will be able to respond to your call in the most efficient manner possible. Remain calm and answer the dispatcher’s questions to the best of your ability.

To report suspicious persons, vehicles or circumstances, or to advise us of a crime that occurred while you were away, call the Pearland Police Department’s 24-hour number: 281-997-4100 for non-emergencies and 911 for emergencies.

What you will be asked and what to say:

What is the nature of your call?  If it’s a crime, is the crime in progress, or did it occur earlier? If it’s an accident, are there any injuries?  If it is a disturbance, what is the nature of the disturbance (family fight, street fight, etc.)?  Are there any weapons involved?  When reporting suspicious activity, what is the nature of the suspicious activity and where is it occurring. 

What is the location of the problem? If possible, provide the exact address. If the exact address is unknown, give the cross streets.

What is your name and what telephone number are you calling from?

Are there suspects and what are their descriptions?  Provide details using the examples below:

How many suspects are there?  What was their direction of travel?

Was a weapon used?

Was there a vehicle involved?  What is the license number, description, and direction of travel?

Remember……while you are talking to the police dispatcher, a police unit is being dispatched to the incident scene. Remain on the phone until the police officers arrive or the dispatcher advises you to hang up.