(Describer) Title: Meet the Helpers

Hi. My name is Rene, and I'm a helper. I'm very proud of my job because I get to help you when there's an emergency. I'm a 911 operator. 911 operators coordinate with firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and other helpers to send the assistance you need in an emergency. I have a lot of tools to make sure that I can get you the help you need during an emergency. One of my tools is my headset. My headset lets me answer calls without picking up the phone. It sits on my head so that my hands are free to use the computer. Another tool is my computer. My computer helps me to find where you are located. I also use the computer to request assistance from firefighters, police officers, and other helpers. I'm going to tell you a little more about how 911 operators like me help in an emergency. My job is very fast-paced, and I often do many things at the same time. You can call me by dialing 911 on a phone. I will answer by saying, "911. What's your emergency?" As we are talking, it's important for you to stay calm. Explain what is happening so I can send other helpers to you. When you call, I will ask you several questions like, "Where are you calling from? What type of emergency is this? Who needs help? And what is happening?" One way you can help me is by knowing your last name, home address, your parents' name and phone number. Practice remembering this important information. An emergency can be scary. So you can tell me if you feel upset, hurt, scared, or even angry. I like to listen, and I will stay on the phone with you until other helpers can get to you. It is always best to ask an adult before calling 911. But if no adult can help you, it is important to know when you should call 911 in an emergency. So, what is an emergency? An emergency is when you or someone else is in danger. Some examples of an emergency are fire, a stranger breaking into your home, or a car accident. 911 is very serious and should never be used unless it is an emergency. A joke or a prank call can take away from someone who needs help or has a real emergency. I like my job because I get to help people like you. You can help me by listening to my instructions, answering my questions, and staying calm. 911 operators like me are important helpers in our neighborhood because we are the first call in an emergency. So, what is my job? To keep you safe. And what's your job? To be safe.

(narrator) To meet other helpers in our neighborhood, go to meetthehelpers.org. "Meet the Helpers" is made possible by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private corporation funded by the American people.