Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Call 911 when someone needs immediate help from police, firefighters, or an ambulance—for example, during a crime in progress, an immediate threat, a serious medical crisis, or a fire. Use your local police non-emergency number for matters that need police attention but not an immediate response, such as a past theft when the suspect is gone or a noise complaint. If you cannot tell whether there is immediate danger, call 911, explain what is happening, and follow the call-taker’s instructions.

The basic rule: Is immediate help needed?

The National 911 Program defines an emergency as “any situation that requires immediate assistance from the police, fire department or ambulance.” The key distinction is the need for immediate help—not simply how upsetting or important the situation feels. National 911 Program guidance was last updated January 24, 2023.

These are practical examples, not a nationwide list of dispatch rules. Local agencies set their own procedures and may offer online or other reporting options. Check the official website of the police agency where the incident happened for its non-emergency number and instructions.

Choose the number based on what is happening now

Call 911 Call the local police non-emergency number
Someone is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical help. The incident has ended, and no one appears to be in immediate danger.
A crime is happening now, or a suspect is still there or has just left. You discovered theft, vandalism, or fraud later, and no suspect is present.
There is a fire, serious crash, injury, or current threat to property. You need to report a noise complaint or another matter that does not require an immediate response.

Local examples can help, but they are not universal cutoffs. San Diego advises calling 911 for danger to life or property, a crime in progress or one occurring within the last 5–10 minutes, an immediate medical need, or a fire. That 5–10-minute prompt is San Diego’s local guidance, not a national rule. Its examples of non-emergencies include noise complaints, loitering, and some auto theft or vandalism situations without an immediate need for help. San Diego Police: When to Call 9-1-1

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Gevoke 410 Piece Waterproof Hard Shell First Aid Kit, Red
  • PERFECT FOR FAMILY USE: This first aid kit includes 410 essential supplies, providing a comprehensive selection of items for everyday preparedness at home. Keep essential supplies organized and within easy reach for unexpected situations involving the whole family.
  • Multi-Compartments & Well-Organized: All accessories are visible at a glance thanks to the five transparent compartments inside this first aid kit. It's easy and simple for any adult to use, allowing you to quickly and accurately access the first aid supplies you need in an emergency
  • PORTABLE DESIGN: Measuring 9.8" x 6.6" x 4.1" and weighing just 2.43 lbs, this compact kit features a detachable shoulder strap and a durable TPU handle for easy carrying. The portable design makes it convenient to take along on camping trips, outdoor adventures, travel, and other activities while keeping essential supplies organized and within easy reach.
  • High Quality First Aid Case: The surface is made of premium waterproof EVA material, and the hardness of the case has been enhanced to make it tougher and more durable. Premium waterproof zippers provide better waterproof performance, and double zippers offer added convenience. Its compact size ensures it fits perfectly in your RV, ATV, yacht, boat, Jeep, bike, or motorcycle
  • ALWAYS READY FOR ANY EMERGENCY: With its comprehensive selection of essential supplies, this first aid kit is a practical choice for families, offices, camping, hiking, boating, car trips, sports, travel, road trips, workplaces, and schools. Its compact and versatile design makes it easy to keep essential items organized and ready for unexpected situations, whether at home or on the go.

Knoxville lists nonviolent theft or vehicle burglary when the suspect is gone, fraud or vandalism when no suspect is on scene, noise complaints, and property-damage crashes that are not blocking the roadway as non-emergency examples. Knoxville Police Department reporting guidance

Portland describes police calls by priority, from violent events and active crimes to welfare checks and reports about past incidents. The bureau notes that emergency calls take priority and response times vary. Portland Police Bureau: Understanding 911 Call Priorities

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

What to tell the 911 call-taker

Give the call-taker the information needed to identify the location and the kind of help required. Be ready to share:

  • The exact location of the emergency, including an address, nearby intersection, or other useful landmark.
  • Your phone number.
  • What is happening now.
  • Useful details, such as a person’s description, fire conditions, or the nature of injuries and symptoms.

Answer questions and follow instructions. Do not hang up until the call-taker tells you to. Their questions help determine and route the response; questions do not mean help has not been started. If you called 911 by accident, stay on the line and explain that there is no emergency. Hanging up can lead officials to believe an emergency exists and prompt a response. See the National 911 Program’s FAQ about calling 911.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Can you text 911?

Call 911 if you can; the National 911 Program recommends texting when a voice call is not possible. Text-to-911 availability varies by location. If the local center cannot receive your text, you should get a delivery-failure message. Do not assume a text reached dispatch unless you receive confirmation.

How to get help in another city or state

911 generally cannot transfer you to a different town, city, or state. If you need help sent to a location where you are not physically present, contact law enforcement in the community where assistance is needed using its 10-digit number. Find that number on the agency’s official website. Do not call 911 just to ask for a non-emergency number.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.