What helps determine the potential severity of a call?

Understanding 'What' is happening is crucial in assessing the potential severity of a call because it provides essential context about the situation at hand. This includes details such as the nature of the incident, the level of threat to individuals involved, and any immediate risks present. Knowledge of "what" is happening allows responders to prioritize calls effectively, allocate appropriate resources, and ensure that the necessary response actions are taken swiftly. It focuses on the specifics of the incident rather than peripheral details, which can significantly impact the urgency and response strategy.

While the background of the caller, availability of resources, and time of day can provide additional context, they do not directly inform the immediate severity of the situation as clearly as understanding the mechanics and dynamics of the incident itself.