Using the 911 System
911 is the emergency number in Fargo. You can call this number 24 hours a day for police, fire or emergency medical services. It can save you valuable time in an emergency. We want you to know how and when to call 911 in case you have an emergency.
Call 911 when...
- police, fire and medical response is needed.
- you see fire or smoke.
- life and/or property are in danger.
- a crime is being committed.
- an ambulance is necessary.
Anyone can call 911
Children should be taught to call 911 for police, fire or medical help. A preprogrammed speed dial button may be helpful for those with vision impairments. The hearing-impaired can use a TDD machine.
How to call 911
To call 911 from a home phone or a simple business phone, pick up the phone and press the numbers, 911.To call 9-1-1 from a Centrex or PBX business extension, obtain an outside line (usually with "9"), and then press the numbers, 911. To call 911 from a pay phone, no money is needed; simply press the numbers 911. To call 911 from a cellular phone or mobile phone, press the numbers 911. No location information will be displayed.
Providing information to the 911 dispatcher
Try to remain calm when explaining the emergency and speak clearly. Tell the 911 dispatcher:
- your name
- the location of the emergency
- the type of emergency
The 911 dispatcher will then ask you more questions. Provide the answers as best you can.Stay on the telephone until the dispatcher says it is okay to hang up. Remember, don't call 911 to ask questions or to play a joke. Post your address and phone number by each telephone so anyone will be able to give the vital information needed for a quick response. Make sure your house number is visible from the street.
To contact police, fire or medical services in a non-emergency situation:
- Call Fargo Fire at 241-1540.
- Call Fargo Police at 241-1437.
- Call F-M Ambulance at 364-1700.