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When to Call 911

When to Call 911

The 911 emergency telephone system connects you to fire, medical, or police help. Use it only for situations that require an immediate response from emergency services.

When to call 911:

  • Fires
  • Crimes in progress or dangerous situations
  • Medical Emergencies
  • Any event needing an immediate fire engine, ambulance, or police response

What to Expect:

When you dial 911 an operator will answer and ask “What is your emergency?”

  • Answer clearly and concisely.
  • If you don’t speak English, try to say “HELP.”
  • Stay calm and do not hang up unless your safety is at risk.
  • Follow all instructions — dispatchers may guide you through life-saving steps until help arrives.

How to Prepare for Responders

  • Turn on an outside light and flash it if possible.
  • Send someone to the curb or driveway to meet responders (but stay off the street).
  • Clear a path inside the home, especially to the patient in medical emergencies.
  • Secure pets in another room.
  • Be ready with this information:
    • Nature of the problem (e.g., “The patient is not breathing”)
    • Address or location (use landmarks if unsure)
    • Your phone number
    • Your name
    • Any additional details (medical history, number of people injured, type of accident, etc.)

Life-Threatening Emergencies: Call 911 Immediately

  • Breathing difficulty or stopped breathing
  • Choking (cannot talk or breathe)
  • Severe chest pain lasting longer than 2 minutes
  • Uncontrollable bleeding or large blood loss
  • Drowning or electrocution
  • Drug overdose or poisoning
  • Gunshot wounds or stabbings
  • Vomiting blood or sudden unconsciousness
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, unresponsive)
  • Major burns (white/charred skin or large blisters)
  • Serious injuries from accidents, falls, or entrapment

Do NOT Call 911 for Non-Emergencies

Use non-emergency numbers instead:

Examples of non-emergencies:

  • Minor illnesses (cold, flu, aches, minor cuts)
  • Broken fingers or toes
  • Emotional upsets
  • Routine doctor transportation (use a taxi or private ambulance)
  • Power outages, weather updates, or road conditions
  • Barking dogs, pets in trees, or other non-urgent nuisances

Remember, these are general guidelines — If there is any doubt, call 911