FAQs

Is 911 the same as EMS?: No. Although we work closely with EMS, we are not the same. EMS personnel are the ones that respond to the location or scene of the emergency. We are the ones who receive the 911 calls and dispatches EMS to these calls. We are not a sub-unit or division of EMS. We are a separate entity with different functions. We are the point of contact for EMS as to getting help where it is needed. It is common for dispatchers to be trained as medical technician or paramedics. But, remember we are also trained in police and fire assistance. Therefore; we are called public safety.

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Emergency 9-1-1

1. Is 911 the same as EMS?: No. Although we work closely with EMS, we are not the same. EMS personnel are the ones that respond to the location or scene of the emergency. We are the ones who receive the 911 calls and dispatches EMS to these calls. We are not a sub-unit or division of EMS. We are a separate entity with different functions. We are the point of contact for EMS as to getting help where it is needed. It is common for dispatchers to be trained as medical technician or paramedics. But, remember we are also trained in police and fire assistance. Therefore; we are called public safety.

2. Is 911 located in the jail?: No. We are located at 703 2nd Street West, Hampton and the jail is located at 411 Cemetery Road, Varnville. It is a common misconception that since we dispatch for Law Enforcement, we must be at the jail or police department. Although this may be the case in some areas, it is not in Hampton County. We are the point of contact for Law Enforcement in relation to getting help where it is needed. But once again, we are a separate entity.