Free 911 Operator Test Information Recall and Comprehension Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A caller reports a purse snatching, stating: "He was a tall man in his 20s, wearing a red hoodie and blue jeans. He ran east on Elm Street. Oh, and he had a very noticeable dragon tattoo on his neck! He was also wearing white sneakers and a black backpack." Which set of details is most critical to broadcast to responding units immediately?
- Tall, in his 20s, wearing blue jeans and white sneakers.
- He ran east on Elm Street and was carrying a black backpack.
- A man with a dragon tattoo on his neck wearing a black backpack.
- Red hoodie, dragon tattoo on neck, and direction of travel (east on Elm). (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Red hoodie, dragon tattoo on neck, and direction of travel (east on Elm).
This combination provides the most unique and visible identifiers (bright clothing color, prominent tattoo) and the last known direction of travel. These details are the most essential for officers to begin an effective search and quickly spot the suspect.
Question 2: A highly distressed caller is reporting a medical emergency but is speaking very quickly, making the address difficult to understand. Which of the following is the best technique for the operator to use to comprehend and verify the location?
- Rely solely on the ALI/ANI data, as it is more reliable than a panicked caller's speech.
- Ask clarifying, structured questions such as, "What is the number on the building?" and "Can you spell the street name for me slowly?" (Correct answer)
- Ask the caller to use the phonetic alphabet to spell the street name.
- Tell the caller to calm down first and then repeat the full address.
Correct answer: Ask clarifying, structured questions such as, "What is the number on the building?" and "Can you spell the street name for me slowly?"
Breaking the address down into smaller, specific questions helps the caller focus and provide the necessary details one at a time. This method is more effective for gaining accurate information from a panicked individual than asking them to perform a complex task or relying solely on electronic data, which can be inaccurate.
Question 3: What is the primary purpose of an operator repeating critical information, such as an address or license plate number, back to the caller?
- To verify that the operator heard and recorded the information correctly, allowing the caller to make corrections. (Correct answer)
- To calm the caller by demonstrating that their information is being taken seriously.
- To create a clear, official voice recording of the information for potential legal proceedings.
- To stall for time while waiting for units to be dispatched to the scene.
Correct answer: To verify that the operator heard and recorded the information correctly, allowing the caller to make corrections.
The main goal of this standard procedure, known as 'read-back' or 'echoing,' is to ensure accuracy. It confirms the operator has correctly understood the details and gives the caller an immediate opportunity to correct any errors before responders are sent with incorrect information.
Question 4: A caller states, "My mother just collapsed. She was complaining that her words were coming out jumbled, her face looks all droopy on one side, and she said she couldn't lift her left arm." The operator should comprehend that these symptoms are most indicative of what medical emergency?
- A severe allergic reaction.
- A diabetic emergency.
- A stroke. (Correct answer)
- A seizure.
Correct answer: A stroke.
The combination of slurred/jumbled speech, facial drooping, and unilateral arm weakness (one-sided weakness) are classic signs of a stroke. Recognizing this pattern is a critical comprehension skill for dispatching the appropriate level of care.
Question 5: A caller is reporting a suspicious vehicle and states the license plate is '7-Boy-Adam-Nora-9-1-Victor'. The connection has static. Based on standard phonetic alphabet comprehension, which of the following should be entered into the system?
- 7BAN91V (Correct answer)
- 7PAV91B
- 7DAN91V
- 7BAK91P
Correct answer: 7BAN91V
This question tests the ability to accurately recall and transcribe information provided using the standard law enforcement phonetic alphabet. 'Boy' stands for B, 'Adam' for A, 'Nora' for N, and 'Victor' for V.
Question 6: After obtaining the location of the emergency and the primary nature of the call, what is the main goal of asking structured follow-up questions about weapons, suspects, and injuries?
- To determine if the caller is being truthful about the initial report.
- To gather additional details that enhance responder safety and improve the effectiveness of the response. (Correct answer)
- To keep the caller on the line to provide emotional support until help arrives.
- To fulfill a mandatory time requirement for call duration before disconnecting.
Correct answer: To gather additional details that enhance responder safety and improve the effectiveness of the response.
The primary purpose of asking these follow-up questions is to build a more complete and accurate picture of the scene. This information is critical for ensuring the safety of the responding units and the public, and for determining the appropriate resources needed for the incident.
Free 911 Operator Test Information Recall and Comprehension Questions and Answers
A caller reports a purse snatching, stating: "He was a tall man in his 20s, wearing a red hoodie and blue jeans.
He ran east on Elm Street.
Oh, and he had a very noticeable dragon tattoo on his neck! He was also wearing white sneakers and a black backpack." Which set of details is most critical to broadcast to responding units immediately?