When responding to callers, which critical information should be prioritized if only one piece can be obtained?

Prioritizing where an incident occurred is crucial for a timely and effective response from emergency services. Knowing the location allows dispatchers to provide first responders with the information they need to reach the scene quickly, which can significantly impact the outcome of the situation. Being aware of the precise location enables responders to navigate to the area efficiently, especially in emergencies where every second counts.

While understanding what happened, when it occurred, and who was involved are all important pieces of information, they hinge heavily on location. For example, if someone is injured, emergency personnel need to know where to go to provide assistance, regardless of the specifics of the incident. Therefore, in a scenario where only one piece of information can be obtained, the location should take precedence to ensure that help can be dispatched without delay.