How do I access the EMS System?
Dial 911 to report any emergency. When the call is answered you will be asked several questions. The first question is "Where is your emergency?". While you are being asked several questions, emergency personnel and equipment are being dispatched. When you do call 911, please do the following:

• Speak clearly into the telephone and speak directly to the 911 telecommunicator.
• Don't talk with others while on 911.
• Do not put the telecommunicator on hold.
• Know the exact location (building number, street, suite, or apartment number, or street intersection) where help is needed.
• Answer all the questions the 911 telecommunicator asks. They need the information not only for your safety, but also for the safety of the responding personnel.
• Don't hang-up until asked to do so by the call taker. The 911 telecommunicator may be able to give important instructions before emergency personnel arrive at the scene.

Is there anything I can do to make finding my residence easier?
Yes. First, does your house number display measure up to these standards?

• Are your house numbers readable from the street?
• Make sure your house numbers are set on a background of contrasting color.
• On a corner lot, your house numbers should face the street named in the address.
• In a rural area, your house number should be on the mailbox as well as on the house.
• House numbers should be illuminated or easily visible at night.
• House numbers should be in plain block numerals, not script or written numbers.
• When the house is some distance from the street, or when the view of the house is blocked by trees or shrubs, house numbers should be on a sign attached to a tree, fence, gate, or lawn stake. Contact your local government authority for exact ways to display your address.

Second, at night have someone blink the house lights when they see an emergency vehicle or have someone stand at the end of your driveway to flag us down.

Why does a fire truck show up to some calls?
Sometimes a fire engine will arrive first because it is the closest emergency vehicle to the scene. While waiting for the ambulance to arrive on the scene, the fire department EMTs will render whatever aid and care is necessary. Along with basic first aid equipment, all Danville Fire Department fire engines are equipped with automated external defibrillators. Defibrillators are a device used to monitor the heart and deliver an electrical charge to correct a life-threatening heart rhythm. Teamwork is an essential part of emergency operations, and all of the personnel on the emergency scene are trained to function as a life-saving team.

What should I do when there is an emergency vehicle behind me displaying its lights?
Virginia law requires that the driver of every vehicle shall immediately move as close as possible and parallel to the nearest edge of the road, clear of any intersection, and stop whenever an emergency vehicle with warning lights and siren operating is approaching. The driver shall remain stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed and no other emergency equipment is in sight.

Can I ride along on the ambulance to the hospital?
You may ride along to the hospital. However, you will be asked to ride in the front with the driver. When possible, you may want to drive your own vehicle to the hospital, because we are not able to give you a ride back to your residence. When driving to the hospital yourself, you must obey all state laws and stay at least 500 feet behind the ambulance.

Will I receive a bill from the Danville Life Saving Crew?
No. All emergency services rendered by the DLSC are provided to you without charge. Your donations make this possible.

Does the DLSC install child seats?
Car seat installations are handled by the Danville Police Department (434-799-6510) and the Danville Fire Department (434-799-5226).