ELI5, How does calling the emergency line connect you to the nearest PD?
In: 3
The cellular provider has to do it, generally as a part of the contract to allow them to operate. When you place an emergency call, it’s not the same as a regular call, so the cell towers know to process it differently. The network knows where the local emergency providers are and what their phone numbers are, so your emergency call is automatically routed to the provider/dispatcher.
This is also why you can place emergency calls even if you are in a poor service area. Any cell tower must service an emergency call, even if they are a competitor to your specific cellular service provider.
Latest Answers