When I called 9-1-1 and requested an ambulance, the dispatcher asked a lot of questions. Why do they take so much time asking questions?

All 9-1-1 calls are handled by the Sheriff’s Office. Calls takers answer 9-1-1 calls and are supposed to immediately process the calls to the radio operator for notification of the closest emergency response unit(s). Generally, a radio operator is dispatching the ambulance, while the call taker is still gathering important information from the caller. This information aids responding units before they reach the scene. Additionally, many dispatchers are trained to assist callers with vital life saving information and talk them through an emergency until the Firefighter-Paramedics arrive.