Why should dispatchers avoid making assumptions during calls?

Dispatchers must avoid making assumptions during calls because assumptions can lead to miscommunication. In emergency situations, clear and accurate information is crucial for effective response and patient care. When dispatchers rely on assumptions, they may misunderstand the urgency of a situation or miss critical details that the caller has provided. This miscommunication can result in inadequate responses, wrong resources being dispatched, or delays that could impact outcomes for those in need of assistance. By actively seeking clarification and verifying information through questioning, dispatchers ensure that they have a complete and accurate understanding of the incident, which ultimately enhances the overall effectiveness of the emergency response.