When to call 911?
Posted on: March 9, 2023 - 4:24pm
When should I call 9-1-1?
Please call 9-1-1 any time something is happening which requires the attention of police, fire, or emergency medical services (EMS) right away. Some examples: a vehicle is operating erratically, and you’re concerned the driver is impaired. You see smoke or fire and are worried about the source. Or you see someone fall off their bicycle and they don’t appear to recover immediately.
When should I call the non-emergency number for police, fire, or EMS?
Any time something is happening requiring their attention, but time is not of the essence. If there’s been a strange car parked at the end of your road for several days, we should come take a look – but a business line call is just fine. If you have a question about a burn permit, the fire department’s business line is best for that, too!
Will I get in trouble for calling 9-1-1 if it’s not a true emergency?
Well, don’t call 9-1-1 if your pizza delivery is taking too long, or if your neighbor is wearing his burnt-orange leisure suit again! Seriously, though, if you’re not sure whether your situation is an emergency or not, err on the side of caution and call 9-1-1 so we can get help to you right away.
I know our public safety employees are busy – aren’t I bothering them by calling?
Never! Whether it’s a 9-1-1 call or a non-emergency call, we always want to connect with you to see what we can do to help. Many times, we can solve small issues to prevent them from becoming bigger issues if you call us early on!
What happens when I call 9-1-1?
A call-taker will immediately answer your call by asking “9-1-1, what is the address of your emergency?” After you tell them where you are, they will ask enough follow-up questions to get you the right help, and to help you be safe or aid someone else until emergency services arrive. Even though it might seem like these questions take a while, don’t worry! While the call-taker is talking with you, a dispatcher is already sending help your way. The questions don’t slow down our response!
What happens when I call the non-emergency number?
Your call will be answered by an auto-attendant at our dispatch center. Press “2” to be connected to a call-taker and let them know what you need. As with 9-1-1, they will gather all the relevant information and a dispatcher will be connecting you with the right public safety official to assist you.
What happens when I pick up the phone in the police department lobby (seen here)?
You will immediately be connected with a call-taker – just let them know what you need and again, help will be on the way! This line can be used any time our Administrative Assistant is not in the office and is not for emergencies only – this phone can be used any time you need to connect with police, fire or EMS for any reason.