Special Needs Calls

How can hearing impaired callers use 911?

Many of the hearing impaired have a TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) connected to their telephone. When dialing 911, TDD users should hit the space bar on their keyboard once to signal the call. The 911 Telecommunicator will have the ability to communicate with the caller by engaging the TDD/Keyboard.

For non-emergencies TDD callers should dial 815-966-2900

How can callers who don't speak english use 911?

The 911 Center uses the "Language Line", a service that provides a translator for non-English speaking callers. The translator will remain on the line throughout the call to relay information between the caller and the 911 Telecommunicator.