MELROSE ACTION SAFETY CENTER
Calling and Texting 9-1-1
9-1-1
Call if You Can.
Text if You Can’t.
In an emergency situation, dialing
9-1-1 on your phone will connect you with a trained dispatcher who can quickly assess the situation and send the appropriate emergency responders to your location. Texting 9-1-1 is a newer option that has become increasingly popular, especially for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or simply have to keep quiet in a dangerous situation.
Know The Basics of Contacting 9-1-1
If there is an EMERGENCY, call 9-1-1. Crimes in progress such as a burglary, robbery, a fight, or anything life threatening are considered an EMERGENCY.
When you call 9-1-1 the operator will know the location you are calling from. Often times, the crime is occurring elsewhere on the property from where you are calling. Be prepared to describe exactly where the crime is occurring so that the police can be effective and safe in responding to the situation, while minimizing the ability of the suspects to escape. When in doubt, use 9-1-1, but use common sense and proper discretion when deciding whether or not a situation is truly an EMERGENCY.
Mobile users in Los Angeles County now have the ability to send text messages to 9-1-1, giving hearing and speech impaired residents, or those in situations where it is too dangerous to dial 9-1-1, a potentially life saving option.
If you text 9-1-1 and text is not available in your area, you will receive a bounce back message advising text is not available, then resort to calling 9-1-1. It’s better to call and be quiet than not to contact them at all! Location accuracy varies by carrier and should not be relied upon.
Be prepared to give your location. Photos and videos cannot be sent to 9-1-1. Text messages should be sent in plain English only, and not contain popular abbreviations or emojis. Texts cannot be part of a group text.
