When requesting someone to call 9-1-1, which communication techniques are most effective?

The most effective technique for requesting someone to call 9-1-1 is to verbally direct an individual and establish eye contact with that person. This approach minimizes confusion and ensures that the instruction is clear and personal. When saying, "You, call 9-1-1," you are specifically assigning the task to one individual, enabling quick action. Making eye contact reinforces the urgency of the request and helps garner the person's attention, making them more likely to respond promptly.

Other strategies, such as making eye contact with multiple people, might lead to uncertainty about who should take action. Vague language can create ambiguity and delay the response time, which is critical in emergencies. Speaking loudly may not be effective if the request is not directed at a specific individual, as it can lead to misunderstandings or bystander confusion rather than facilitating a direct response. Thus, directing your request to a specific person while ensuring they understand the urgency is the most effective method.