What is the Number for Non-Emergency Police?
When you need to report a non-emergency incident to the police, you may wonder what the correct number to call is. In this article, we will provide the answer to this question, along with some important details about when to call and what to expect when you do.
What is a Non-Emergency Police Call?
Before we dive into the phone number, let’s define what a non-emergency police call is. A non-emergency call is any situation that does not require immediate police response or attention. This can include things like:
- Reporting a stolen item or a lost pet
- Filing a police report for a minor incident, such as a hit-and-run or a property damage
- Asking for information or guidance on a specific issue
- Reporting a noise complaint or a disturbance
The Number for Non-Emergency Police
In the United States, the number for non-emergency police is typically 1-877-ASK-4-INFO. This number is usually answered by a police dispatcher who will take your information and forward it to the appropriate officer or unit.
Other Options
While the number 1-877-ASK-4-INFO is the most common, there may be other options depending on your location. Some police departments may have a dedicated non-emergency number, such as:
- 9-1-1: This is the standard emergency number, but some police departments may have a non-emergency line that is also answered at this number.
- 311: This is a non-emergency number that is usually answered by a city or municipal government office, rather than the police department.
When to Call the Non-Emergency Police
So, when should you call the non-emergency police? Here are some guidelines to follow:
- If it’s not an emergency: If the situation is not life-threatening or immediate, you should call the non-emergency police number.
- If you need information: If you have questions about a specific issue or want to report a minor incident, you should call the non-emergency police number.
- If you need to file a report: If you want to file a police report for a minor incident, such as a hit-and-run or a property damage, you should call the non-emergency police number.
What to Expect When You Call
When you call the non-emergency police number, you can expect the following:
- A police dispatcher will answer: The person answering the phone will be a police dispatcher who will take your information and forward it to the appropriate officer or unit.
- You will be asked questions: The dispatcher will ask you questions about the incident or issue you are reporting, such as what happened, where it happened, and any relevant details.
- A report may be filed: Depending on the nature of the incident, a police report may be filed and a file number assigned.
- An officer may be dispatched: If the incident is serious enough, an officer may be dispatched to your location to take a statement or investigate further.
Tips for Calling the Non-Emergency Police
Here are some tips to keep in mind when calling the non-emergency police:
- Be prepared to provide information: Make sure you have all the relevant details ready, such as the location, time, and any witnesses or suspects.
- Stay calm and patient: It may take some time to get through to a dispatcher, so be patient and stay calm.
- Follow up: If you file a report, be sure to follow up with the police department to see the status of your case.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the number for non-emergency police in the United States is 1-877-ASK-4-INFO, although there may be other options depending on your location. Remember to call the non-emergency police number if the situation is not life-threatening or immediate, and be prepared to provide information and follow up with the police department.
