Finding the Address

Location, location, location! Most of us recognize this as the mantra of realtors worldwide. So what does it have to do with EMS?

An emergency call for assistance begins with the call for help, which has either been received by Burlington County’s Central Dispatch or has been relayed to them via local law enforcement, fire or EMS agencies. “Central” dispatches emergency personnel to the incident with the reported address and any pertinent location information, such as nearest cross-streets. Because the dispatched location sometimes varies from the actual location, clearly marked addresses on residential and commercial buildings contribute significantly to a rapid emergency response.

Is Your House Identifiable?

Take this quick test. At night, go outside and observe your home or business (safely) from the street, as an emergency responder might see it from a vehicle such as an ambulance. Can you easily read the house number or business address from the street? Is there good contrast (light numbers on a dark background or vice versa)? Black numbers on a dark brown background are discouraged. Is your house number written numerically or is it in a more decorative cursive style? As lovely as the cursive style may be, it is most difficult to read from a moving vehicle. Is your house number on the curb? Do vehicles normally block it from view? If so, clear markings on the residence are a must.

If you live in a more rural location, is your driveway and mailbox clearly marked and visible from the main road? Consider posting reflective markers and numbers if street lighting is not available.

And lastly, once emergency personnel arrive, is there clear access? Are steps, sidewalks, driveways and parking lots in good condition, or do they present a hazard? During the winter months, has ice and snow been cleared from these areas? A clear and discernible path for ingress and egress should be available.

Spend time daily promoting safety in and around your home and business by taking care of these simple but vital concerns. Critically evaluate your “location” today in order to help make our emergency response to you and your family or friends as rapid as possible.