Florida 911 Public Safety Telecommunicator (PST) Practice Exam

The basic questioning techniques used by the PST to properly classify a call should be asked in which order?

1. Where, What, When, Who, Weapons, How

2. What, Where, When, Who, How, Weapons

3. Where, What, When, Weapons, Who, How

4. What, Where, When, Who, Weapons, How

The correct answer is: Where, What, When, Weapons, Who, How

The correct sequence for the basic questioning techniques used by a Public Safety Telecommunicator (PST) to properly classify a call is rooted in establishing a clear and organized flow of information. The order "Where, What, When, Weapons, Who, How" emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and critical details that need immediate attention. Beginning with "Where" helps the PST determine the location of the incident, which is crucial for dispatching resources efficiently. Following with "What" allows the telecommunicator to gain an understanding of the nature of the emergency. By asking "When," the PST pinpoints the timing of the event, which can influence the urgency and type of response required. Including "Weapons" in this sequence is particularly critical, as it addresses any immediate threats or dangers that responders may face. Knowing about weapons helps in assessing the level of risk involved. "Who" follows as this identifies individuals involved or affected, which can be necessary for both the responders and for further investigations. Finally, "How" can provide useful context regarding how the incident occurred, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the situation. This structured approach maximizes the efficiency and safety of the response by ensuring the PST gathers vital information systematically and can relay it effectively to