When to Call 911
Call 911 when you need immediate help from police, fire, or emergency medical services. Use it for crimes in progress, fires, medical emergencies, and situations where lives or property are at immediate risk.
What Counts as an Emergency
An emergency is any situation that requires urgent professional assistance. Examples include serious injuries, difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, chest pain, choking, severe allergic reactions, and active threats to safety.
How 911 Response Works
When you dial 911, a trained dispatcher answers, asks for your location and the nature of the emergency, and sends the appropriate responders. Stay on the line, follow instructions, and provide clear details to help them assist you quickly.
For general information about emergency services and when to use 911, visit the Federal Communications Commission at fcc.gov/consumers/guides/when-call-911.
