Thanks, Brett, for the info! I actually /like/ the long winded descriptions.
FYI - In some places, the 911 dispatchers are the same people who answer the Sheriff's, Local PD and Fire phone numbers. So, simply calling the Sheriff's Dept. and saying that you just installed a new phone system and want to test 911 would be a good place to start.
Calling 911 and saying "oh, I'm just testing" would be a bad idea, although it happens *a lot* (older people mostly, from what I hear.)
While it's a bad idea, it's better than not testing it at all. 911 dispatchers are well trained. They know how to handle all sorts of calls, including testing, info, "I lost my dog" and "I'm dying." If they /are/ busy and you say "testing" they can clear the call in a matter of seconds and get back to the emergencies at hand.
Obviously, if you're a CLEC, or someone who's going to be making several test calls, you'll want to establish a procedure with the dispatch center first.
As other posters have pointed out, it's always far better to test (even with bad procedures) than to not test and have the system fail in an emergency.
I've done volunteer work for emergency services and disaster agencies and the rule of thumb is *always*, "When In Doubt, Call It In!"
When calling _anyone_ involved in emergency services, be brief and to the point. And, in most cases, skip introducing yourself, your company, what your working, etc. Just say what you want and answer any questions directly and briefly. ie, call the Sheriff or local PD and say "I want to test 911 on my new phone system." Don't get into a long winded introduction. Also, when you're transfer to someone else (this may happen more times than you'd like). Always start by saying the same thing, "I want to test 911 on my new phone system."
This might sound like I'm stating the obvious, but emergency service workers are trained in effective, efficent communication. If you speak to them in the same way, you're immediately be considered "professional" instead of "someone I have to deal with."
Okay, that's my long winded post of the day. Hopefully, someone will find it useful.
cheers, glenn
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