Education & Safety – Kern County Fire Department (2024)

• When calling 9-1-1, one of the first things you’ll be asked to provide is the location of the emer­gency you’re reporting.

• The call taker may not automatically know your location or may ask you to confirm it.

• Make sure you provide as much detail on your location as possible, such as landmarks, cross streets and mileposts.

• The current 9-1-1 system is designed for voice communications only.

• Texting 9-1-1 is not an option in most locales; you must dial 9-1-1 and speak with a call taker.

• Pull over when driving, if possible. This reduces the chance of a dropped call.

• Lock your keypad when you’re not using your phone, so 9-1-1 isn’t dialed by mistake. For the same reason, don’t put 9-1-1 on speed dial.

• Do not give old phones to children as toys. A wireless phone with no active service can still call 9-1-1.

• If you accidentally call 9-1-1, stay on the line and tell the call taker that you do not have an emergency.

• Calling 9-1-1 from a cell phone is always free and it is never necessary to dial an area code.

• Call 9-1-1 for emergencies only. It is appropri­ate to call 9-1-1 when you need to save a life, stop a crime or report a fire.

• 9-1-1 is the right number to call in an emergency when a prompt response is needed.

• If you are not sure you have an emergency to report, call 9-1-1 and let the call taker decide.

• Before you need help in an emergency, be sure to understand how the type of phone you use affects your call to 9-1-1. It is important to know the capabilities of the device you are using (landline, cellular, VoIP).

• Cell phones may not automatically tell 9-1-1 where you are so be prepared to provide de­tailed information about your location

• Try to stay calm, give information and follow all instructions.

• Professional call-takers are trained to get infor­mation from you. Listen carefully and answer as concisely as possible.

• Remember that even if the dispatcher is still asking questions or giving instructions, help is on the way

• The more you know what to expect when you call 9-1-1, the faster 9-1-1 can get you the help you need.

• You can save a life! Follow all instructions the 9-1-1 call taker gives you, and don’t hang up until the call taker does. If you get cut off, call back and explain that you were cut off.

1. All persons wishing to participate in the Ride-Along Program must be at least 18 years of age and be subject to a background review.
2. A completedApplication for Ride-Alongshall be submitted at least two (2) weeks in advance of the preferred ride-along date. Submitting a request does not guarantee approval. Applicants shall be notified in writing if the request is denied.
3. Approval is determined by any of the following criteria:

1. Required mandatory continuing education for public service providers
2. Kern County EMS required educational development of emergency services students
3. Approved by the Fire Chief

1. Prior to the approval and scheduling of the Ride-Along, you will be required to sign theRide-Along Program Rules,Hold Harmless, andConfidentiality Agreements.Participants must have a valid photo ID or current driver’s license with them when reporting for their scheduled ride-along.
2. Applicants who are currently in the Kern County Fire Department application or pre-employment screening process are NOT eligible.
3. Date, time, and station preferences shall be accommodated when possible.
4. Participants shall be limited to one ride-along per year unless otherwise specified by Kern County EMS requirements.