Call Processing
9-1-1 Call Takers evaluate all incoming calls to determine what type of response is required. 9-1-1 Call Takers enter call information into a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, which routes the call to the appropriate Seattle Police Department sector (North, East, West, South/Southwest) for deployment. 9-1-1 calls requiring a Seattle Fire Department (SFD) response or other Emergency Medical Responses (EMS) are conferenced with SFD and Medic One for deployment and pre-arrival medical instructions.
Dispatch
After a 9-1-1 call is processed, a 9-1-1 Radio Dispatcher communicates to First Responders (Police, Fire, CARE Community Crisis Responders) in the field. When a 9-1-1 call is entered, the 9-1-1 Radio Dispatcher is immediately notified of the incoming call and dispatches available resources. The 9-1-1 Radio Dispatcher maintains contact with units in the field and coordinates the responses of specialty units, including CARE Community Crisis Responders, SWAT, and police detectives.
Accessibility Services (Deaf, Hard of Hearing)
- In Seattle, callers who are deaf and hard of hearing can text 9-1-1.
- To assist callers who are hard of hearing, each 9-1-1 Call Taker station in the CARE Department is equipped with a teletypewriter (TTY) machine.
- Each 9-1-1 Call Taker is trained in the proper procedure of answering TTY calls.
- Frequent TTY test calls are conducted to ensure that 9-1-1 Call Takers maintain their TTY skills.
- Note: Callers using TTY equipment must dial 9-1-1 to reach police, fire, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
Interpreter Services
- 9-1-1 Call Takers have immediate access to language interpreters who can assist them in communicating with callers who do not speak English.