Ensuring Accuracy

Mailboxes are not always directly aligned with the corresponding home. Displaying the address clearly on the structure itself or on a dedicated post at the driveway entrance helps prevent confusion.

10 Steps to properly display your 9-1-1 address

Importance of Clearly Displaying Your 9-1-1 Address

Clearly displaying your 9-1-1 address is essential to ensure emergency responders — fire, law enforcement, and EMS — can quickly and accurately locate your residence. Proper address visibility can significantly reduce response times and may ultimately save lives.

Driveway Marker:

 If your house is not visible from the road, mark your address at the end of your driveway

Avoiding Obstructions

Address numbers should not be hidden by landscaping, seasonal decorations, or structural features. Maintaining clear visibility year-round is essential.

Contrast: 

Use colors that contrast sharply with the background

For a printable copy of how to display your address click the pictures below

Visibility in Low-Light or Severe Weather Conditions

Reflective or illuminated address numbers are critical during nighttime, heavy rain, fog, or storms when visibility is reduced.

Key Reasons for Proper Address Display

Life-Saving Seconds

During an emergency, every second matters. Clearly visible address numbers eliminate unnecessary delays and help responders reach you faster.

This video was not produced by Marengo County E-911. Additionally, the first responders shown in the video are not affiliated with or operating within Marengo County.

Tips for Displaying Your 911 Address

Locating Homes Not Visible from the Road

If your residence is set back from the roadway, obstructed by trees, or accessed via a long or shared driveway, posting the address at the driveway entrance ensures responders do not lose valuable time searching.

How to display your address

​​​​​​Marengo County Emergency Communications District

Reflective Materials:

 Use reflective, green, or bright signs that are easily visible, especially in rural, unlit areas

Size Matters:

 Use numbers that are at least 4 inches high for residential, and 6 inches for commercial/multi-dwelling

Maintain Visibility: 

Frequently clear bushes, weeds, or decorations that block your address