When should I call 9-1-1?

9-1-1 is only to be used in emergencies.  An emergency is any situation that requires immediate assistance from the police, fire, or rescue.  9-1-1 is for emergencies, potential emergencies, or when an emergency is imminent.

Ask yourself:

  • Is there a danger to life or property?
  • Is there a serious medical emergency (chest pains, seizures, bleeding, etc?)
  • Is there any type of fire (building, vehicle, brush, etc?)
  • Is there any crime in-progress (robbery, burglary, prowler, fights, etc?)
  • Are there any other life threatening situations (traffic accident with injuries, stuck in high water, etc?)
  • Is the caller or someone else the victim of a crime?
  • If you are ever in doubt of whether a situation is an emergency, you should call 9-1-1.  It is better to be safe and let the 9-1-1 call taker determine if you need emergency assistance.

Please, do not call 9-1-1 to report that electricity or other utilities are off; to notify authorities of traffic jams; to inquire about government services; or to learn general information.

Show All Answers

1. Can the center communicate with the speech/hearing-impaired?
2. Why does dispatch ask so many questions?
3. What do I say when I call 9-1-1?
4. What do I do if I call 9-1-1 by accident?
5. When should I call 9-1-1?