Informational Resources

Rhode Island Special Needs Emergency Registry

If you or a family member has special needs, it is important to enroll them in the Special Needs Emergency Registry. The Department of Health and Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency have worked with E 9-1-1 to develop this system, which alerts telecommunicators to notify police, fire and other first responders if they are responding to a household that may have someone enrolled in the registry. This notification allows first responders additional time to consider how to best respond to that incident. Visit the Registry's website for more information and to enroll.

Did You Know?

  • You do not need to deposit a coin in order to dial 9-1-1 from a pay phone as long as there is a dial tone when you pick up the receiver.
  • The current 9-1-1 system is designed to accept voice communications and text messaging.
  • It is a good idea to lock your wireless phone so that you don't accidently call 9-1-1. Pocket and purse dialing can tie up 9-1-1 emergency lines.
  • It is against the law to dial 9-1-1 if you do not have an emergency. Someone else may not get the service they need if you are playing with 9-1-1. Also, when you dial 9-1-1, your telephone number and address will appear on the telecommunicator's computer screen.

Use 9-1-1 responsibly

For non-emergencies, call your local police or fire department or other appropriate agency.

If you accidentally call 9-1-1, DO NOT hang up! Simply tell the telecommunicator that you mistakenly dialed 9-1-1 so they know that there is no emergency. If you hang up on the telecommunicator, first responders will still be sent your location to check on your well-being.