Using Autopatch in Emergencies

An autopatch connects the repeater to the public switched network for placing local telephone calls. This is done by inputting your DTMF access code and the telephone number or programmed speed dial number.

When making emergency calls via autopatch it is vital that transmissions be kept brief. This is because autopatch calls are not full-duplex like a telephone and the person answering does not know that you are on the radio.

You cannot hear the call taker's instructions when you are talking! Don't blurt out a long string of information. It only frustrates the call taker and prolongs the call.

The 911 system traces calls, but when on the autopatch it displays the building address of the repeater site, not where you are!

When emergency services answers clearly say:
"This is < your name >. There is a < incident type > at < location >. I am calling on the radio and cannot hear you until I stop talking, OVER..."

Saying "OVER" and unkeying makes your point clearly. Be brief, do not explain. Let the call taker PROMPT YOU for further information.

Have the following information ready for the call taker:

  1. LOCATION, most accurate position possible, street name or state highway route number, mile marker, street number or cross street.
  2. DIRECTION of travel, and which lane or shoulder.
  3. INCIDENT TYPE, traffic accident with injury or property damage only, vehicle fire, dead animal, debris in road, etc.
  4. NUMBER and TYPE of VEHICLES involved; auto, pickup, tractor-trailer, etc.
  5. DESCRIPTION of VEHICLE and NUMBER OF OCCUPANTS: i.e., red 4-dr. compact, two occupants, female driver and infant in car seat.
  6. INJURIES, NUMBER OF PEOPLE INJURED, and EXTENT of injuries, if known;
  7. HAZARDS; power lines down, occupants possibly trapped, brush fire, fuel leak, HAZMAT placard visible on trailer, lanes blocked, etc.
  8. YOUR NAME and TELEPHONE number where you can be reached later.

Answer any other questions the call taker may have. The call taker couldn't care less about your callsign, it's extraneous information to them. They will want a name and telephone number where you can be reached later. Give your work telephone or pager if you don't want to give your home telephone over the air. Always wait for the operator to hang up before you identify with your callsign and terminate the phone patch.

Page Last Updated, 05/08/09

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