In the five steps of receiving and dispatching emergency calls, the first step is call receipt. What is the second step?

• A. Ticket initiation
• B. Location validation
• C. Calling the caller back
• D. Paging the units

Answer: (B)

In the process of receiving and dispatching emergency calls, after call receipt, the second step involves location validation. This step is critical as it ensures that the emergency services are dispatched to the correct location. Accurately validating the location helps prevent delays and inaccuracies that could endanger lives or affect the outcome of the emergency response. It often involves confirming the address provided by the caller and sometimes rechecking against available databases or mapping systems to ensure that the information is precise. This step is essential in creating an effective and timely response plan for emergency units. Proper location validation can also help identify any challenges in reaching the location, such as road closures or difficult terrain.