GITNUX REPORT 2024

U.S. 911 Call Statistics: Key Facts About Emergency Dispatch Centers

Unveiling the Numbers: Dive Into the Fascinating Statistics Behind 911 Emergency Calls in the U.S.

Author: Jannik Lindner

First published: 7/17/2024

Statistic 1

The average 911 call lasts about 45 seconds

Statistic 2

About 15-20% of 911 calls are accidental or non-emergency

Statistic 3

About 70% of 911 calls are for law enforcement

Statistic 4

Approximately 20% of 911 calls are for medical emergencies

Statistic 5

Fire-related emergencies account for about 10% of 911 calls

Statistic 6

About 10% of 911 calls are abandoned before being answered

Statistic 7

About 20% of 911 calls are related to traffic incidents

Statistic 8

Approximately 5% of 911 calls are for mental health emergencies

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Approximately 2% of 911 calls are for hazardous materials incidents

Statistic 10

Approximately 15% of 911 calls are for domestic violence incidents

Statistic 11

Approximately 3% of 911 calls are for animal-related emergencies

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Approximately 8% of 911 calls are for weather-related emergencies

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Approximately 1% of 911 calls are for terrorist-related incidents

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Approximately 12% of 911 calls are for noise complaints

Statistic 15

Approximately 6% of 911 calls are for missing person reports

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Approximately 4% of 911 calls are for structure fires

Statistic 17

Approximately 9% of 911 calls are for burglaries or break-ins

Statistic 18

Approximately 7% of 911 calls are for suspicious person or activity reports

Statistic 19

Approximately 240 million calls are made to 911 in the U.S. each year

Statistic 20

The busiest time for 911 calls is typically between 6 PM and 9 PM

Statistic 21

The average 911 dispatcher handles about 80 calls per 8-hour shift

Statistic 22

Approximately 600,000 911 calls are made daily in the United States

Statistic 23

The busiest day for 911 calls is typically New Year's Eve

Statistic 24

The average 911 dispatcher handles about 1,000 calls per month

Statistic 25

The average 911 dispatcher handles about 10 emergency calls per hour

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The average 911 call taker processes about 50 calls per day

Statistic 27

The average 911 call center handles about 300 calls per day

Statistic 28

Approximately 98% of the U.S. population has access to basic 911 services

Statistic 29

Approximately 93% of the U.S. population is covered by some form of Enhanced 911 service

Statistic 30

About 95% of the U.S. is covered by some type of 911 service

Statistic 31

The average 911 call center serves a population of about 30,000 people

Statistic 32

The first 911 call was made in Haleyville, Alabama, in 1968

Statistic 33

Approximately 10,000 emergency dispatch centers handle 911 calls in the U.S.

Statistic 34

Approximately 3,000 to 4,000 911 dispatchers are hired annually in the U.S.

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About 240,000 people work as 911 dispatchers in the United States

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The cost of running 911 services in the U.S. is estimated at $3.5 billion annually

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The average 911 dispatcher earns about $43,290 per year

Statistic 38

The average training time for a 911 dispatcher is 3-6 months

Statistic 39

The average cost per 911 call is estimated to be around $15

Statistic 40

The average 911 dispatcher works about 40 hours per week

Statistic 41

About 80% of 911 centers in the U.S. have backup power systems

Statistic 42

The average 911 dispatcher has about 3-5 years of experience

Statistic 43

The average 911 dispatcher undergoes about 40 hours of continuing education annually

Statistic 44

The average 911 dispatcher works about 12-hour shifts

Statistic 45

The average time from when a 911 call is received to when help arrives is about 8 minutes

Statistic 46

The average response time for Priority 1 emergency calls is about 5 minutes

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Approximately 85% of 911 calls are answered within 10 seconds

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The average time to process a 911 call is about 1.5 minutes

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About 80% of 911 calls come from wireless devices

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Enhanced 911 (E911) is available to about 96% of the U.S. population

Statistic 51

About 25% of 911 centers in the U.S. can receive text messages

Statistic 52

Approximately 75% of 911 centers can pinpoint the location of wireless callers

Statistic 53

About 50% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented Next Generation 911 (NG911) capabilities

Statistic 54

Approximately 30% of 911 calls are made from landline phones

Statistic 55

About 40% of 911 centers in the U.S. can receive photos or videos

Statistic 56

About 60% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented text-to-911 capabilities

Statistic 57

About 75% of 911 centers in the U.S. use computer-aided dispatch systems

Statistic 58

About 70% of 911 centers in the U.S. use geographic information systems (GIS)

Statistic 59

About 90% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented Phase II wireless location capabilities

Statistic 60

About 65% of 911 centers in the U.S. use voice over IP (VoIP) technology

Statistic 61

About 85% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented emergency medical dispatch protocols

Statistic 62

About 55% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented Next Generation 911 (NG911) core services

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About 75% of 911 centers in the U.S. use automated vehicle location (AVL) systems

Statistic 64

About 70% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented text-to-911 capabilities

Statistic 65

About 80% of 911 centers in the U.S. use computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems

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Summary

  • Approximately 240 million calls are made to 911 in the U.S. each year
  • About 80% of 911 calls come from wireless devices
  • The average time from when a 911 call is received to when help arrives is about 8 minutes
  • Approximately 10,000 emergency dispatch centers handle 911 calls in the U.S.
  • About 15-20% of 911 calls are accidental or non-emergency
  • The first 911 call was made in Haleyville, Alabama, in 1968
  • Approximately 98% of the U.S. population has access to basic 911 services
  • Enhanced 911 (E911) is available to about 96% of the U.S. population
  • The average 911 call lasts about 45 seconds
  • About 70% of 911 calls are for law enforcement
  • Approximately 20% of 911 calls are for medical emergencies
  • Fire-related emergencies account for about 10% of 911 calls
  • The busiest time for 911 calls is typically between 6 PM and 9 PM
  • About 25% of 911 centers in the U.S. can receive text messages
  • Approximately 3,000 to 4,000 911 dispatchers are hired annually in the U.S.

Dialing in the Details: Unraveling the Intriguing World of 911 Calls in the U.S.! Did you know that every year, around 240 million emergency calls flood the nation, with about 80% coming from mobile devices faster than you can say emergency? From accidental honks to heart-pounding emergencies, buckle up as we delve into the fascinating statistics behind those saving digits. The numbers speak volumes, like how about 10,000 centers across the country are the unsung heroes fielding these calls, or how the average 911 call duration is shorter than your morning coffee break. Join us on this wild ride of sirens, statistics, and dispatch heroes – because saving the day is just a phone call away!

Call Duration

  • The average 911 call lasts about 45 seconds

Interpretation

In a world where attention spans are dwindling faster than a scoop of ice cream on a hot summer day, it seems even emergency situations are not immune to the ticking clock. With the average 911 call lasting just 45 seconds, it appears that when it comes to conveying crucial information, brevity truly is the soul of wit, and perhaps survival. So remember, when dialing those three simple digits, make it quick, make it count, and for Pete's sake, try not to get put on hold.

Call Types

  • About 15-20% of 911 calls are accidental or non-emergency
  • About 70% of 911 calls are for law enforcement
  • Approximately 20% of 911 calls are for medical emergencies
  • Fire-related emergencies account for about 10% of 911 calls
  • About 10% of 911 calls are abandoned before being answered
  • About 20% of 911 calls are related to traffic incidents
  • Approximately 5% of 911 calls are for mental health emergencies
  • Approximately 2% of 911 calls are for hazardous materials incidents
  • Approximately 15% of 911 calls are for domestic violence incidents
  • Approximately 3% of 911 calls are for animal-related emergencies
  • Approximately 8% of 911 calls are for weather-related emergencies
  • Approximately 1% of 911 calls are for terrorist-related incidents
  • Approximately 12% of 911 calls are for noise complaints
  • Approximately 6% of 911 calls are for missing person reports
  • Approximately 4% of 911 calls are for structure fires
  • Approximately 9% of 911 calls are for burglaries or break-ins
  • Approximately 7% of 911 calls are for suspicious person or activity reports

Interpretation

In a world where emergencies vary from misplaced cats to menacing burglaries, it seems that our 911 call system is a true mixed bag of surprises. From accidental butt dials to serious medical crises, our dispatchers must juggle a myriad of situations, including noise complaints that are alarmingly ear-shattering. So the next time you think about dialing 911 because your neighbor's dog won't stop barking, perhaps consider writing a strongly worded letter instead. And let's hope that the elusive hazardous materials incidents remain a rare gem in the midst of this colorful emergency mosaic.

Call Volume

  • Approximately 240 million calls are made to 911 in the U.S. each year
  • The busiest time for 911 calls is typically between 6 PM and 9 PM
  • The average 911 dispatcher handles about 80 calls per 8-hour shift
  • Approximately 600,000 911 calls are made daily in the United States
  • The busiest day for 911 calls is typically New Year's Eve
  • The average 911 dispatcher handles about 1,000 calls per month
  • The average 911 dispatcher handles about 10 emergency calls per hour
  • The average 911 call taker processes about 50 calls per day
  • The average 911 call center handles about 300 calls per day

Interpretation

In a world where even superheroes need a break, spare a thought for the unsung heroes of our emergency services - the 911 dispatchers. These statistics paint a vivid picture of the relentless flood of calls they face daily, like a never-ending game of emergency whack-a-mole. With the busiest day falling on New Year's Eve, it seems the only fireworks some will see are the flashing lights of their consoles. So, next time you dial those three crucial numbers, remember the calm voice on the other end juggling 10 emergencies an hour and handling 300 calls a day - they're not just answering the phone, they're the lifeline between chaos and control.

Coverage

  • Approximately 98% of the U.S. population has access to basic 911 services
  • Approximately 93% of the U.S. population is covered by some form of Enhanced 911 service
  • About 95% of the U.S. is covered by some type of 911 service
  • The average 911 call center serves a population of about 30,000 people

Interpretation

In a world where you can summon a latte with the touch of a button and have groceries delivered by drone, it's comforting to know that 98% of Americans have access to basic 911 services. But don't let that fool you - just because 95% of the country is covered by some type of emergency service doesn't mean you can rely on that to find the best pizza joint in town. Remember, when it comes to saving lives, it's not just about the numbers but also about the swift and efficient response from the average 911 call center, serving a population of 30,000 people. So the next time you think about dialing up emergency services, just remember that behind every statistic is a dedicated team ready to spring into action, no matter if you need a pepperoni recommendation or a paramedic.

Historical

  • The first 911 call was made in Haleyville, Alabama, in 1968

Interpretation

In a world where pressing the numbers "9-1-1" is the universal signal for "urgent help needed," it's quite amusing to think that there was a time when this trio of digits didn't automatically summon assistance. The first 911 call, made in Haleyville, Alabama, in 1968, marked a pivotal moment in communication history, showcasing the power of simplicity in times of crisis. From rotary phones to smartphones, this enduring symbol of emergency response reminds us that sometimes, it only takes three numbers to make a life-saving connection.

Infrastructure

  • Approximately 10,000 emergency dispatch centers handle 911 calls in the U.S.
  • Approximately 3,000 to 4,000 911 dispatchers are hired annually in the U.S.
  • About 240,000 people work as 911 dispatchers in the United States
  • The cost of running 911 services in the U.S. is estimated at $3.5 billion annually
  • The average 911 dispatcher earns about $43,290 per year
  • The average training time for a 911 dispatcher is 3-6 months
  • The average cost per 911 call is estimated to be around $15
  • The average 911 dispatcher works about 40 hours per week
  • About 80% of 911 centers in the U.S. have backup power systems
  • The average 911 dispatcher has about 3-5 years of experience
  • The average 911 dispatcher undergoes about 40 hours of continuing education annually
  • The average 911 dispatcher works about 12-hour shifts

Interpretation

In the world of 911 dispatch, numbers speak volumes. With approximately 10,000 emergency dispatch centers and 240,000 dedicated dispatchers scattered across the country, it's clear that behind every distress call lies a network of individuals ready to leap into action. The cost of this crucial service rings in at a hefty $3.5 billion annually, highlighting the value placed on saving lives. And while the average dispatcher's salary may not scream extravagance at $43,290 per year, their training, experience, and commitment are priceless. So next time you dial those three vital digits, remember there's a team of unsung heroes on the other end, working tirelessly, possibly on a 12-hour shift, to ensure help is just a call away.

Response Time

  • The average time from when a 911 call is received to when help arrives is about 8 minutes
  • The average response time for Priority 1 emergency calls is about 5 minutes
  • Approximately 85% of 911 calls are answered within 10 seconds
  • The average time to process a 911 call is about 1.5 minutes

Interpretation

These statistics paint a mixed picture of our emergency response system: while it's reassuring to know that most 911 calls are answered promptly and help arrives within a reasonable timeframe, one can't help but wonder what goes on in the mysterious 1.5 minutes it takes to "process" a call. Perhaps there's a secret emergency call bake-off happening in those precious moments, where dispatchers use quick thinking and expert multitasking skills to prioritize and delegate each crisis cake. Let's hope they don't burn the response time while whipping up our lifeline soufflé.

Technology

  • About 80% of 911 calls come from wireless devices
  • Enhanced 911 (E911) is available to about 96% of the U.S. population
  • About 25% of 911 centers in the U.S. can receive text messages
  • Approximately 75% of 911 centers can pinpoint the location of wireless callers
  • About 50% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented Next Generation 911 (NG911) capabilities
  • Approximately 30% of 911 calls are made from landline phones
  • About 40% of 911 centers in the U.S. can receive photos or videos
  • About 60% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented text-to-911 capabilities
  • About 75% of 911 centers in the U.S. use computer-aided dispatch systems
  • About 70% of 911 centers in the U.S. use geographic information systems (GIS)
  • About 90% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented Phase II wireless location capabilities
  • About 65% of 911 centers in the U.S. use voice over IP (VoIP) technology
  • About 85% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented emergency medical dispatch protocols
  • About 55% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented Next Generation 911 (NG911) core services
  • About 75% of 911 centers in the U.S. use automated vehicle location (AVL) systems
  • About 70% of 911 centers in the U.S. have implemented text-to-911 capabilities
  • About 80% of 911 centers in the U.S. use computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems

Interpretation

In a world where texts and emojis have become the primary mode of communication, it's reassuring to know that about 25% of 911 centers in the U.S. can now receive text messages in times of emergency. With approximately 75% of centers equipped to pinpoint the exact location of frantic wireless callers, it seems the evolution of emergency response systems is catching up to our tech-savvy ways. As about 40% of centers can even receive photos or videos, one can't help but wonder if sending a selfie in distress is the new standard for a cry for help. But rest assured, with about 85% of centers utilizing emergency medical dispatch protocols and about 70% implementing Next Generation 911 (NG911) core services, our emergency systems are not just adapting to the digital age but paving the way for a safer and more efficient response to crises.

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