What is the proper process to report a detour to dispatch?

• A. State your current location and describe the detour, and note hazards.
• B. Provide updated ETA and hazards only.
• C. State your current location, describe the detour, provide updated ETA, and note hazards.
• D. Describe the detour and provide updated ETA.

Answer: (C)

Reporting a detour to dispatch should include your current location, a description of the detour, an updated estimated time of arrival, and any hazards along the new route. This combination ensures dispatch has a precise position, a clear understanding of why you’re changing course, an accurate arrival time to adjust resources, and awareness of any risks you’ll encounter.

Current location anchors you on the map so personnel can track your progress in real time. Describing the detour communicates the exact route change and any new streets or intersections to navigate, preventing confusion about where you’re going. Providing an updated ETA lets hospitals and other teams adjust planning and expected arrival, which is crucial for patient care and coordination with other units. Noting hazards alerts dispatch to traffic, construction, weather, or road conditions that could affect safety and timing, enabling proactive warnings or alternative routing for the entire response.

If any one piece is missing, dispatch loses critical context: without location, they can’t pinpoint you; without the detour description, they might not understand the new path; without an updated ETA, timing and resource decisions suffer; without hazards, potential risks aren’t communicated. That’s why including all four elements makes the communication complete and effective.