What Is A Non-Emergency? Don’t Call 911 In These Situations

November 27, 2024

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Washington, DC along with many other parts of the country have ignited “Make The Right Call Campaign” to encourage residents to use 311 instead of 911 for non-emergency situations. This effort will reserve 911 services for critical emergencies, improving response efficiency and public safety.

What is considered a “non-emergency” emergency?

As defined by the DC Office of Unified Communications, a non-emergency call is any call related to an incident that does not pose an immediate threat to the safety of individuals and/or incidents that occurred at least one hour before the initial request for police assistance is made. An emergency is defined as an event that poses immediate, significant threat to life and/or property. You should call 911 to report a crime in progress where the offender is still on the scene (or has just left the scene), report a fire, hazardous spill, smoke, or electrical hazards, request medical assistance and/or report the sighting of a criminal whom you know is wanted by the police, as a few examples.

Please note: “311” isn’t available in every city or state so make sure to double check your local community directory before calling.

Also See: What Exactly Is An ‘AMBER Alert’?

Examples of situations where you should call the non-emergency line (311) instead of the emergency line (911):

Noise Complaints
Reporting A Loud Party After Hours
Traffic Complaints
A Minor Traffic Accident With No Injuries
Vandalism Without An Immediate Threat
Crimes or Incidents that Happened in the Past, No Injury, and the Suspect is No Longer on the Scene
A Stolen Vehicle Where The Suspect Is No Longer Present

We hope this gives a clear understanding so you know which 3 numbers to dial if needed. Stay safe!

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