Florida 911 Public Safety Telecommunicator (PST) Practice Exam

Which president declared 9-1-1 as the National Communications Number?

1. President Ronald Reagan

2. President George H.W. Bush

3. President Bill Clinton

4. President Barak Obama

The correct answer is: President Bill Clinton

The correct answer is that President Ronald Reagan declared 9-1-1 as the National Communications Number. This landmark decision occurred in 1987 when he endorsed the recommendation of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish 9-1-1 as the universal emergency telephone number in the United States. This initiative was prompted by the need for a simple and memorable number that people could dial in emergencies, thus streamlining access to emergency services. The choice of another president might lead to confusion, as they played significant roles in various technological advancements or public safety initiatives, but it was Reagan who specifically made the national declaration regarding the 9-1-1 system. Understanding this crucial historical context helps to clarify the importance of each president's policies, emphasizing how Reagan's support was foundational in shaping emergency communications in the U.S.