What you will accomplish
You and your family can ask for help quickly without using 911 for a non-urgent problem.
Prepare these items
- Your full home address written in English
- Emergency contacts
- Medication and allergy information
- Local police, fire, poison-control, and utility emergency numbers
Follow these practical steps
- 1
Call 911 for immediate threats to life, serious injury, fire, or a crime happening now.
- 2
State the location first, then explain what happened and whether anyone is injured.
- 3
Answer the operator's questions and do not hang up until told to do so.
- 4
Ask for a language interpreter if you need one.
- 5
Save the local non-emergency police number for reports or questions that are not urgent.
- 6
Create a family meeting point and teach children their address and how to call for help.
Pause if you see these risks
- Do not call 911 for general information, transportation, or a routine service request.
- Do not drive yourself when the emergency operator says an ambulance is needed.
- Do not post a victim's private medical information publicly.
Before you call this task complete
- Every adult knows the home address.
- Emergency and non-emergency numbers are saved.
- Your family has a simple meeting and communication plan.
Confirm the current requirements
911.gov — Calling 911Open official source ↗Ready.gov — Make a PlanOpen official source ↗Educational information—not individual legal, financial, immigration, or medical advice.
Rules, fees, forms, and eligibility can change. Confirm the current requirements with the responsible agency or a qualified professional for your situation.