When it is necessary to call 9-1-1, the voice you hear answering "Santa Clara Emergency" is from the City's Public Safety Communications Center. Our 9-1-1 Communications, "Dispatch" Center will send help for any emergency: Fire, Police, Medical, as well as downed power lines, lost children, attacking dogs, etc. If the emergency is in a city other than Santa Clara, our Dispatchers will transfer the call to the appropriate 9-1-1 Dispatch Center.

When calling 9-1-1, stay on the line. Try to control your emotions and speak clearly. It will be easier for Dispatchers to more rapidly get assistance to you if you stay calm. Often, as soon as you start talking, the Dispatcher starts to get you the help you need, even though he/she might continue to ask you questions. Stay on the line -- help is on the way!

The City has upgraded the equipment serving the Public Safety Communications Center. New radio and 9-1-1 telephone console equipment was installed, and the Center continues to have the latest state-of-the-art computer based systems which provide the City Dispatchers with the best tools available to serve the safety needs of this community.

The Communications Department will be implementing a new Emergency Medical Dispatch Program that will include the provision of emergency medical, or first aid instructions over the phone to citizens calling to report medical emergencies. The City anticipates making this service available to our citizens within the next year.

Phone Fact: Did you know.....that if you pick up your phone and do not hear any dialtone, the phone system may just be busy? If you encounter this, especially at times when phone traffic may be heavy (i.e. Mother's Day, New Year's Eve, other holidays, or after a major emergency), you should keep your phone off the hook. Be patient...you will be placed in line to receive dialtone once other calls clear and it is available for your use.