FAQs • Price County, WI • CivicEngage

Can I let my kids play with old cell phones?: Many people don't know this, but the law mandates that even old, deactivated cell phones with no associated service plan must still be able to call 9-1-1. An old cell phone may seem like the perfect free toy, but giving your old device to a youngster may lead to problems. If you want to turn that old phone into a plaything, be sure to remove the battery first.

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9-1-1

1. How do I know when to call 9-1-1?: Call 9-1-1 only if someone is hurt or in danger, or if you are in immediate need of police, fire or medical assistance. If in doubt, err on the side of safety and call 9-1-1 and let the experts who answers your call make the decision whether to send help or not.

2. Will the call taker always know where I am?: Unfortunately, the call taker may not know where you are, especially if you are calling from a wireless device. It is important to be aware of your surroundings. Make a real effort to be as detailed as possible. If you are outside and don't know the street address, take a look around and try to find landmarks or cross streets. If you are inside a large building or one with multiple levels, you can help emergency services by letting them know which floor you are on or which apartment you are in.

3. What should I teach my kids to help them call 9-1-1?: Help your kids memorize important stuff about them and their family. When kids are able to tell the 9-1-1 operator things like their address, their parents' names and their phone number, help will get to them faster.

4. Can I text or instant message (IM) to 9-1-1?: Although available in some areas, text or IM to 9-1-1 is not currently available in Price County. Even though nowadays most communication is done by text message and instant message, you can NOT text or IM "9-1-1" to reach emergency services. For now, you will have to make an old fashioned phone call if you want to talk to 9-1-1.

5. What if I accidentally called 9-1-1?: You may have called 9-1-1 by accident, or your situation may have resolved itself, but it is important to let the 9-1-1 operator know this. If you end the call abruptly, the 9-1-1 operator is going to assume that something has gone very wrong and will either call you back or send help anyway. It is much easier to simply stay on the line and let the 9-1-1 operator know what happened.

6. Can I let my kids play with old cell phones?: Many people don't know this, but the law mandates that even old, deactivated cell phones with no associated service plan must still be able to call 9-1-1. An old cell phone may seem like the perfect free toy, but giving your old device to a youngster may lead to problems. If you want to turn that old phone into a plaything, be sure to remove the battery first.