Frequently Asked Questions

911 is a three-digit telephone number that you can call 24 hours a day for police, fire, or emergency medical services.

Call 911 during an emergency where you believe that the immediate response of the police, a firetruck, or an ambulance is needed. Some examples can include:

• When you see fire or smoke
• When you or someone with you is in danger
• When you see a crime is being committed or has just occurred
• When you believe that an ambulance is needed because someone is hurt or sick
• When someone is trying to get in your house
• When someone suspicious is prowling around your house or neighbors house
• When a child is approached by a stranger

Do not call 911:

• To obtain weather reports
• To report utility problems (such as power outages, phone and water repairs)
• To ask for directions or road names
• For general information pertaining to police reports, jails
• When your keys locked in vehicles, unless someone is locked inside
• To request an ambulance for non-emergency routine transports

911 is only a telephone number. A quick response depends on the important information that you provide. The 911 Telecommunicator will ask you a series of questions. Remain calm and be prepared to provide the following information:

• What kind of emergency you have or what kind of help you need
• Where is the emergency?
• The telephone number you are calling from
• If you are reporting a medical emergency be prepared to provide the following additional information.
  • What is wrong with the patient?
  • Age of patient?
  • Is the patient conscious?
  • Is the patient breathing?