Telephone Operator how-to

How to Transfer an Emergency Call to 911

Fast transfers save lives.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Fast transfers save lives. In short: recognize; get; transfer, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Recognize the emergency.

  2. Get the location.

  3. Transfer to the right center.

  4. Stay on until connected.

  5. Give details.

  6. Log the call.

Safety reminders for telephone operators

  • Keep calls confidential
  • Follow emergency procedures
  • Use ergonomic equipment
  • Take breaks

Directory assistance · Collect call · Relay service · TRS · TTY · VRS: see the full telephone operator glossary.

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