When to Dial 911: Understanding the Difference Between Emergency and Non-Emergency Calls

Emergency service numbers like 911 are designed for urgent situations that pose immediate risks to life or property. However, many people are unsure when to use this number and when to contact a non-emergency line. This article aims to clarify the appropriate use of 911 and other non-emergency numbers for various scenarios.

What is 911 for?

911 is the emergency number to call when someone's safety is in jeopardy or a crime is in progress. It should be used exclusively for life-threatening situations such as:

Violent crimes Stolen vehicles Assaults Kidnapping Fire emergencies Accidents involving injuries or death Domestic violence situations Other emergencies requiring immediate attention

Calling 911 for non-emergency situations can lead to backup in the system and potentially delay help for those who really need it. It's important to use the non-emergency number for the following scenarios:

Non-injury car accidents Blocking traffic Stolen property reports Missing persons reports Illegal parking issues

Understanding the 311 System

Many places use a 311 system for non-emergency calls. Here’s how it typically works:

Call 311 from your phone. Follow the prompts as directed. Press 1 for vehicle tow services. Press 2 to request a report on a past event. Press 3 to file a report of an event without a suspect.

For specific services, pressing the appropriate number can guide you to the right department to handle your request.

When Not to Call 911

There are several situations where you should not call 911. These include:

Your tires are stolen Your partner didn’t provide financial support Your mother wants to give you a bath You can’t find your car You need to file a report yourself without a suspect

These situations, while frustrating, do not require the immediate attention of emergency services. They can be handled through your local non-emergency line or by filing a report yourself.

Examples of When to Call 911

Here are some specific examples of when it is appropriate to call 911:

You have lost a limb or a body part. You have been shot or someone is hurting you. You witness a violent crime in progress, such as a shooting, assault, or kidnapping. You see a person shooting people or committing an act of violence. You have been involved in a car accident with injuries or death. You find a dead body in a home or on the street. Your significant other is about to commit violence against someone and is on their way to do it. You are aware of a bomb threat or any immediate danger. You observe a robbery in progress. You hear gunshots or see a house on fire. An electric line is down or poses a risk to public safety. A police officer needs assistance. A suspect is breaking into your car or house in progress. There is an emergency that needs to be recorded and put into evidence.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that emergency services are available when truly needed and reduce the likelihood of delays in critical situations.