Public Safety Guide
Emergency vs non-emergency
When to Call 911
Use this guide to separate true emergencies from incidents that should go through a local non-emergency line, online reporting form, or records desk.
Call 911 For
- Crimes in progress or suspects actively on scene.
- Medical emergencies, injuries, or threats to life.
- Fires, explosions, or major traffic collisions.
- Immediate safety threats including active violence.
Use Non-Emergency For
- Past property crimes where the suspect is gone.
- Noise complaints, nuisance issues, and parking concerns.
- Minor collisions without injuries or active danger.
- Administrative questions, records requests, and follow-up.
Quick Checklist
What to Tell the Dispatcher
Location
Give the exact address, intersection, or landmark first.
Nature of emergency
State whether the issue is medical, criminal, fire-related, or traffic-related.
Current danger
Explain whether anyone is injured, armed, trapped, or still in danger.
Description
Share suspect, vehicle, or hazard details if you can do so safely.
Need a Local Department Instead?
Use the directory to find the verified non-emergency number, reporting portal, or records desk for your city or county.