When to Call 9-1-1

Call 9-1-1 during an emergency or any situation that requires immediate assistance from law enforcement personnel (police or sheriff), the fire department, or EMS (ambulance). If in doubt whether a situation is an emergency, call 9-1-1.

A few examples of emergencies are: 
    • Any known serious medical or possibly serious medical problem 
    • Any type of fire, chemical spill or smoke seen or smelled within in building, home or other structure 
    • Any life-threatening situation 
    • Any situation where any kind of domestic violence or assault has taken place 
    • Any crime against a person in progress or that has already occurred 
    • Any type of accident with injuries 
    • Shooting 
    • Childbirth 
    • Seizures 
    • Any leaking tank or unknown substance seen leaking from vehicles, storage tanks, etc. 
    • Falls from any height where there is obvious injury or the victim is unconscious 
    • Any time someone is trapped or hurt in any kind of farming, industrial and even home-related accident 
    • Road hazards, drunk or careless / aggressive drivers 
    • Any time you are in fear for your safety or the safety of others.

There are also times when it may not be appropriate to call 9-1-1. Some examples of this are: 
    • To test your phone or the 9-1-1 system 
    • To ask for phone number information (4-1-1) or phone repairs (6-1-1) 
    • To find out about power outages, or school, road or other closings 
    • To find out if someone has been arrested or is in jail 
    • As a prank or a joke 
    • For sick or injured pets 
    • For the location of election / polling sites 
    • To complain about the service or prices in a restaurant or other business 
    • For directions to any location 
    • For tours of the 9-1-1 center or other public safety agencies.