911 Operator Test 911 Dispatcher 4

Question 1

A caller reports smoke coming from a building but is unsure if anyone is inside. How should the dispatcher handle uncertainty about occupants?

Accepted Answer

Dispatch fire and EMS, and have units treat as occupied until confirmed otherwise

Answer

Dispatchers should always err on the side of safety by treating an uncertain occupancy situation as occupied until responders confirm otherwise.

Question 2

What is the significance of 'NENA' in the 911 industry?

Accepted Answer

National Emergency Number Association — the standards body for 911 systems and training

Answer

NENA (National Emergency Number Association) develops standards, training guidelines, and best practices for 911 systems across the United States.

Question 3

A dispatcher receives a 911 call but hears only silence and no response after speaking. What is the correct action?

Accepted Answer

Announce your presence, attempt to elicit a response, and if unsuccessful, dispatch units to the traced address

Answer

Silent 911 calls may indicate a caller who is unable to speak, so dispatchers must announce themselves, listen for clues, and dispatch based on the traced address.

Question 4

What is a 'BOLO' and when would a dispatcher issue one?

Accepted Answer

Be On LookOut — issued to alert patrol units of a suspect or vehicle description to watch for

Answer

A BOLO (Be On LookOut) is a broadcast alert dispatchers send to field units describing a wanted person or vehicle connected to an incident.

Question 5

During a mass casualty incident, a dispatcher's role includes:

Accepted Answer

Coordinating multiple units, activating mutual aid, and maintaining communication between all responding agencies

Answer

During a mass casualty incident, the dispatcher is the communication hub — coordinating resources, requesting mutual aid, and keeping all agencies informed.

911 Operator Test Practice Test

911 Operator Test Practice Test

911 Operator Test 911 Dispatcher 4