Author: Nicole Stankovic, UW Alum and UW School of Public Health Research Coordinator
If you ever find yourself in a medical emergency in the United States, knowing how to call for help can save a life. But for many international students, the U.S. emergency system can feel unfamiliar or confusing. That is why 911 and You was created.
What Is 911?
In the United States, 911 is the phone number you call for help in any life-threatening emergency. The call connects you to trained professionals who send police, firefighters, or medical responders to your location. When someone suddenly collapses, has a stroke, or is seriously injured, calling 911 right away gives them the best chance of survival.
About the Training
Developed by Professor Hendrika Meischke from the UW School of Public Health in partnership with King County EMS, 911 and You is a short and interactive online training that explains what happens when you call 911 for a medical emergency.
Through quick videos, short quizzes, and real-life examples, you can learn:
- What to expect when you call 911
- How to describe your location clearly
- How to request an interpreter if you do not speak English fluently
- What emergency dispatchers will ask and why
Many people hesitate to call because they worry about saying the wrong thing or not understanding the dispatcher. This training shows exactly what to expect, so you can stay calm and confident in a real emergency.
Why It Matters for International Students
Every year, King County 911 centers receive more than one million calls. Many are from people who speak English as a second language or are new to the United States. For international students, knowing how to describe an emergency, share your address, and ask for an interpreter can make a big difference. Practicing these steps before an emergency helps you respond quickly when it truly matters.
By taking the training, you can help keep yourself and others safe and even share what you learn with your friends or family who are new to the United States.
How to Try It
911 and You is free and available on any phone, tablet, or computer. It takes only a few minutes to complete and could make a life-saving difference. Check it out on the Northwest Center for Public Health Practice (NWCPHP) website: https://www.nwcphp.org/training/9-1-1-and-you-preparing-bystanders-emergencies