Reviewed September 16, 2026
When 911 is generally appropriate
Call 911 for an immediate threat to life or safety, a crime in progress, serious injury, fire, dangerous driving creating an immediate hazard, or a situation requiring urgent police, fire or medical response. Give the location first, answer the dispatcher’s questions and follow instructions. Do not hang up merely because the situation changes.
What non-emergency means
A non-emergency police line or reporting service is generally intended for incidents that are not occurring now and present no immediate threat. Examples may include delayed property-crime reports, lost property, certain vandalism reports or questions about an existing report. Eligibility varies by jurisdiction.
When 311 may help
Many cities use 311 for municipal information and quality-of-life requests such as abandoned vehicles, street conditions, noise or other non-urgent city services. It is not available everywhere and does not replace 911.
Other specialized help
Poison-control, crisis, domestic-violence, utility and road-service organizations may be the correct resource when emergency dispatch is not required. Use an established official or nonprofit source and confirm whether the service is appropriate for your circumstances.
What to communicate
Be ready to give the exact location, callback number, description of what occurred, whether anyone is injured, whether weapons or hazards are present, and descriptions of involved people or vehicles. State what you personally observed and separate it from assumptions.