When do I call 911?
911 should only be reserved for true emergencies. Routine calls can be handled by the Mecklenburg County 311 system, or by using the MyMatthews app for smart phones.
What do I tell the 911 operator?
Be sure to give the call-taker as much pertinent information:
- correct address (mile marker if on limited access highway, usually placed every ½ mile)
- nature of the emergency: fire, vehicle crash, injury/medical emergency, etc.
Whenever possible, stop and investigate the emergency so that you can gather much needed information to assist first responders. Only do this when safely feasible: NEVER PLACE YOURSELF IN HARM’S WAY!
Why did I just get passed by a fire truck with lights and sirens on, and now I see them shut off just ahead of me?
Emergency vehicles responding with lights and sirens pose a serious threat to the safety of other vehicles on the road. Many times the nature of an emergency does not require all emergency vehicles to proceed with lights and sirens, if at all. This is why it is necessary that when you call 911, you give as much detail as possible.
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Matthews Fire & EMS is dedicated to you, your family and our community. In addition to Public Education and Fire Prevention, the department participates in a variety of community events.
Please email us with questions about about our Community Relations Programs or to book an event. Please include name, phone number and the date you would like to have the event.
These events include:
- BIRTHDAY PARTIES - Hosted Saturdays and Sundays from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Click here for more information about have your party at Matthews Fire & EMS
- SCHOOL VISITS - Fire and Life Safety Education programs for children Pre-K and older. Please call or Email us to schedule a visit
- MATTHEWS ALIVE! - Each year, the department hosts an open house at Station 1. We also hold automobile extrication demonstrations throughout the festival. Festival Homepage
- Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) - meetings and training