Important Information about E911 Calls

Emergency 911 calls

Remember, you must dial “9” to make an outside call (i.e., off the Stanford network). Even emergency calls must be dialed “9-911” to reach the emergency switchboard directly.

From a VoIP handset

Because the voice network used by VoIP phones is specific to a single building, the emergency responder system will NOT automatically know the physical location of a 911 caller (similar to calling 911 from a cell phone). For this reason:

• When placing a 911 call, provide emergency responders with your specific location (building and office).
• Before moving your VoIP handset from one building to another, have your Department Contact notify Order Management to update your address record.

Note: IT Services will work with clients to strategically place analog phones for emergency calls.

From a Cisco VoIP SoftPhone or wireless phone

Because the voice network used by wireless VoIP phones spans multiple buildings, the emergency responder system will NOT automatically know the physical location of a 911 caller (similar to calling 911 from a cell phone). For this reason:

• You are strongly advised not to place 911 calls from a Cisco SoftPhone or a Cisco wireless phone. These are mobile communication tools and IT Services is unable to identify and report the physical location of the caller from either phone for 911 dispatch.
• If the SoftPhone or the wireless phone is the only phone available, you must provide 911 with your physical address, for 911 dispatch.