What is Police Non-Emergency Number?
When it comes to getting in touch with the authorities, most people know the emergency number, 911, but few are familiar with the police non-emergency number. In this article, we will explain what a non-emergency number is, when to use it, and the benefits of having one.
What is a Non-Emergency Number?
A non-emergency number, also known as a civilian phone number, is a phone number that law enforcement agencies use to report non-urgent matters or concerns. It is often used for situations that don’t require immediate attention but still need to be investigated or addressed.
Who Should Use a Non-Emerergency Number?
The following situations are considered non-emergency and typically require a non-emergency call:
- Reporting theft or vandalism
- Reporting a lost or found property
- Filing a police report for a vehicle accident
- Inquiring about a crime that happened in the past
- Requesting information about local laws or regulations
- Reporting a noise disturbance
- Requesting assistance for a non-life-threatening incident
Benefits of Non-Emergency Numbers
Using a non-emergency number has several benefits, including:
- Priority: Non-emergency numbers are typically answered by specially trained civilian dispatchers or police officers, who have the time and resources to thoroughly investigate and address your concerns.
- Response Time: Since non-emergency calls don’t require immediate attention, responders often have more time to carefully consider the situation and deploy the appropriate resources.
- Less Congestion: By using a non-emergency number, you reduce the likelihood of tying up emergency lines and preventing legitimate emergency calls from getting answered.
- Increased Flexibility: Non-emergency numbers often allow you to schedule a visit or inspection at a convenient time.
How to Find the Non-Emergency Number
The non-emergency number varies depending on your location. Here are a few ways to find yours:
- Local Listings: Check online directories such as Google or Yelp to find the non-emergency number for your local law enforcement agency.
- Police Department Website: Look for the "Contact Us" or "Non-Emergency Number" page on your local police department’s website.
- Phone Book: Check the phone book or online Yellow Pages for the non-emergency number.
Police Non-Emergency Numbers by State
Here’s a list of non-emergency numbers by state. Please note that this information is subject to change:
| State | Non-Emergency Number |
|---|---|
| Alabama | (205) 726-1115 |
| Alaska | (907) 786-8900 |
| Arizona | (602) 262-6151 |
| Arkansas | (501) 227-2500 |
| California | (415) 252-3111 |
| Colorado | (303) 271-4115 |
| Connecticut | (203) 230-2090 |
| Florida | (407) 246-2470 |
| Georgia | (404) 577-3311 |
| Hawaii | (808) 953-4000 |
| Idaho | (208) 377-6793 |
| Illinois | (312) 747-4300 |
| Indiana | (317) 327-1542 |
| Iowa | (319) 356-6921 |
| Kansas | (913) 498-6111 |
| Kentucky | (502) 574-7110 |
| Louisiana | (504) 821-2222 |
| Maine | (207) 874-8530 |
| Maryland | (301) 731-5020 |
| Massachusetts | (617) 341-4300 |
| Michigan | (517) 332-6137 |
| Minnesota | (651) 291-1111 |
| Mississippi | (601) 944-3510 |
| Missouri | (314) 444-3777 |
| Montana | (406) 454-5541 |
| Nebraska | (402) 444-5606 |
| Nevada | (702) 828-3111 |
| New Hampshire | (603) 223-3545 |
| New Jersey | (908) 820-3155 |
| New Mexico | (505) 841-4213 |
| New York | (212) 240-8181 |
| North Carolina | (919) 890-3434 |
| North Dakota | (701) 255-1135 |
| Ohio | (614) 645-4545 |
| Oklahoma | (405) 231-2155 |
| Oregon | (503) 823-3333 |
| Pennsylvania | (717) 238-2626 |
| Rhode Island | (401) 444-2600 |
| South Carolina | (803) 737-8417 |
| South Dakota | (605) 367-2233 |
| Tennessee | (615) 862-7550 |
| Texas | (972) 772-4664 |
| Utah | (801) 799-3000 |
| Vermont | (802) 658-2700 |
| Virginia | (540) 283-5161 |
| Washington | (206) 233-5000 |
| West Virginia | (304) 348-2131 |
| Wisconsin | (608) 258-3395 |
| Wyoming | (307) 777-7517 |
Conclusion
While 911 is the immediate go-to number for life-threatening emergencies, a police non-emergency number offers a vital alternative for less urgent situations. By utilizing a non-emergency number, you can get your concerns addressed without tying up emergency lines and ensure that legitimate emergencies receive the timely response they require. Whether you’re reporting a lost property, inquiring about a crime, or requesting information, knowing your local police non-emergency number is essential.
