According to FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), the first 9-1-1 call took place 50 years ago this month!
On February 16, 1968, Alabama State Senator Rankin Fite completed the first 9-1-1 call in Haleyville, Alabama and it remains as important today as it was when first introduced decades ago. Calling for help remains the first step in assisting someone in any emergency.
In fact, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) You Are the Help Until Help Arrives (Until Help Arrives) program identifies calling 9-1-1 as the first of five actions to help someone until professional help arrives. To honor the 50 year anniversary of this important national service, take time to learn the five steps below and take the Until Help Arrives training online:
- Call 9-1-1 and provide your specific location.
- Stay safe by protecting the injured from harm and moving them away from any ongoing danger.
- Stop the bleeding with firm, direct pressure, or a tourniquet.
- Position the injured: Let someone who is conscious position themselves; put an unconscious person into the recovery position.
- Provide comfort to the injured while keeping them warm and offering encouragement.
For more information on the history of 9-1-1, visit the National Emergency Number Association.
