What type of information should always be obtained when receiving a 911 call?

The most critical information to obtain when receiving a 911 call is the caller's location and the nature of the emergency. This information is vital because it enables the dispatcher to send the appropriate emergency services to the correct location as quickly as possible. Knowing the exact location helps avoid delays in response time and can be crucial in life-threatening situations. Furthermore, understanding the nature of the emergency allows the dispatcher to prioritize the response and provide relevant instructions to the caller, which may alleviate the situation until help arrives. Ensuring that this information is communicated clearly and accurately is essential for effective emergency response.

While other options may seem relevant, such as personal details or call history, they do not directly impact the immediate necessity to respond to an ongoing emergency. The exact time of the call, although important for record-keeping and agency metrics, is secondary to the vital need for location and emergency nature to inform response actions.