Costa Rica News – Every five minutes a woman calls 911 for domestic violence. This happens much more frequently on holidays and days with soccer matches. The operators have a complete protocol that can include up to 10 entities participating during and after the aggression.
The 911 system shows “Intrafamily violence in process” on the screen and as the operator collects information about the address and people involved a notification is being sent to the nearest police delegation as well as the National Institute of Women (Inamu). Depending on the situation, other entities like PANI, Senasa, the fire department or Red Cross may be alerted to respond, as well.
The police arrive and restrain and remove the attacker and Inamu provides support and accompaniment to the victim. They may go with the woman to file reports and protection or to a hospital if necessary.
If you should have to call 911 from a violent situation, be sure to provide the address first, even if they ask for other information just in case the call gets cut. If you fear you might be in a violent situation in the future make sure you and your children know how to give the address in various ways. Additionally, 15 communities have “CLAIS” a team you can go to and identify yourself as a possible victim. They monitor cases and have a complete team that streamlines responses so victims don’t have to repeat the story over and over.
