911 Dispatcher Practice Test

What should a dispatcher do when receiving a call about a dead person?

1. Send an ambulance immediately

2. Ask if the caller is safe

3. Notify the coroner's office

4. Determine the deceased's identity

The correct answer is: Notify the coroner's office

When receiving a call about a dead person, the appropriate action for a dispatcher is to notify the coroner's office. This is because the coroner is responsible for investigating the cause and circumstances of death, especially in cases that may be suspicious or unexpected. Their involvement is critical for legal and health reasons, as they need to examine the body and potentially conduct an autopsy. In such situations, while assessing the scene and ensuring that emergency services are appropriately dispatched is important, the coroner's office must be informed as they have the jurisdiction over the matter. Dispatchers must ensure that all proper protocols are followed for reporting deaths, which typically includes contacting the coroner or medical examiner as one of their duties. The other options may be related to various emergency situations but do not specifically address the unique needs that arise when dealing with a deceased individual. For example, ensuring the safety of the caller is crucial in many emergencies, but it is secondary to the need for official notification of the death.