Reading Skills for Today's Adults

Ann’s two-year-old son had fallen from a high ladder. He was not moving. He was not crying. He was not making any sounds. His life was in danger. Ann knew he needed medical help right away. She called 911.

The 911 operator asked for Ann’s name, phone number, address, and basic directions to her home. Ann had the information ready. She had a list of those details near every phone in her home.

Ann was glad she had prepared the list. She was scared and upset. Her thinking was not clear. However, she was able to give the operator all the information she needed. Ann read everything right from the list.  

Help arrived on time. Her son was taken to the hospital. Ann was glad she called 911.

Some people dial 911 by mistake. If this happens to you, do not hang up. Tell the operator you dialed 911 by mistake. If you hang up, an operator will call you back. A police car may be sent to your home.