Teaching Kids About 911

Why Knowing Your Address Matters
When an emergency happens, seconds count. For 911 dispatchers, knowing exactly where to send help is the most important piece of information we can get. That’s why it’s so important to teach kids their home address — it could save a life.
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Even if a child is nervous or doesn’t know what to say, simply being able to share their address can help us get help on the way quickly. Make it a family habit to practice saying your address out loud, just like you would practice a fire drill.

Meet SREC's mascot Loci: The Helping Yeti

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One of the best ways to teach children about 911 is through Loci: the Helping Yeti, a fun and friendly storybook made just for kids. The book helps them understand:
  • What 911 is for – emergencies that need police, fire, or medical help.
  • Why it’s important to stay calm and speak clearly.
  • Key safety tips, like:
    • If you call 911 by accident, stay on the line so our Communications Officers know you're okay.
    • Always know your address and phone number.
    • Only call 911 in real emergencies — not for jokes or pranks.
You can read SREC's children's book Loci: the Helping Yeti together online with our interactive flipping book — perfect for story time at home or in the classroom.

Help Your Child Be 911 Ready

Here are a few helpful tips to teach your kid about 911:
  • Practice: Have your child repeat their full address and phone number until they can say it without help.
  • Role-play: Pretend to be a 911 Communications Officer and have them answer your questions.
  • Reassure: Let them know that 911 operators are friendly helpers who want to keep them safe.
By starting these conversations early, you’ll help your child feel confident and prepared — and you’ll give them the tools to help in an emergency.

Read The Tale of Loci

Watch Jackson's Story

A Hero at Just 8 Years Old
When Jackson George saw his mom, Anna, having a seizure, he didn’t panic—he took action. The 8-year-old quickly called 911, clearly explaining the situation to a SREC Communications Officer, and got help to his mom fast.

Thanks to Jackson’s calm voice and quick thinking, the Spokane Valley Fire Department  was able to respond swiftly and provide the critical care Anna needed.

It’s a powerful reminder of how important it is to teach kids when and how to call 911. Anna had taken the time to talk to Jackson about emergencies—and that conversation made all the difference.
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