Show All Answers

1. When should I call 911?

a. When you see fire and/or smoke
b. When you see a motor vehicle accident
c. When you or someone with you is in danger
d. When you see a crime in progress or a crime that has just occurred
e. When you believe an ambulance is needed because someone is injured or ill.
f. When someone is trying to gain access to your residence
g. When someone suspicious is prowling around your house or neighbor's residence

Remember: 9-1-1 is to be used for emergencies only. For non-emergency police, fire, or medical requests, dial (276) 926-1650. For other non-emergencies, consult your telephone directory for the appropriate number for the agency you wish to contact. If you do not have a telephone directory, dial 4-1-1 for directory assistance.

2. When should I not call 911?

a. To request weather reports or road conditions
b. To report power outages and/or phone repairs
c. To ask for directions and/or road names
d. To request you 911 address
i. 911 address are generated at Engineering and Mapping Department and may be reaching by calling (276) 926-6107
e. To request general information regarding a report you filed
f. To report keys locked in vehicles (unless someone is trapped inside)
g. To request an ambulance for the purpose of a non-emergency routine transport (Dr. Appointments)
h. To request general information, including business closing times, Halloween trick or treat times, parade times, etc.

Remember: 9-1-1 is not to be played with! It is for those who truly need it. In all cases, it is vital that you know the address and telephone number you are calling from in order to receive assistance as quickly as possible.

Virginia's penal code calls 911 abuse a "class 1 misdemeanor," which is punishable by up to a year in jail, a $2,500 fine, or both. In fact, in Virginia it's illegal to make false reports of emergencies or disasters by telephone to anyone - public or private - not just the 911 lines.

3. If you do call 911, even by mistake, do not hang up the phone.

a. Dispatchers are trained to get the most important information as quickly as possible to get help on the way to an emergency situation. In an emergency situation, allow the dispatcher to ask you all the questions they need in order to get help there in the timeliest manner before you hang up or leave the phone. If you happen to call by accident, stay on the line until you can tell the dispatcher that you called by accident and there is no emergency. This saves the dispatcher from having to call you back and confirm there is no emergency or possibly sending police with lights and sirens to check your address for an emergency.

4. How will you find my house in an emergency?

a.In an emergency, would the police department, fire department, or ambulance be able in finding your address? Even with all the technology available to us, it does not always help us find where you are. b.To assist emergency responders to find your house more easily, Post your address clearly and prominently at your entrance and on your home. c.Posting your 9-1-1 address at the driveway entrance and on your home will alleviate any confusion as to whether emergency responders have the correct location. Try using something reflective or illuminated so that it can be seen in the evening as well as during the day. d.Do not assume since your mailbox is marked you have posted your address, mailboxes are not always at the entrance of a driveway and usually are not marked clearly on both sides. Always report missing street signs to the Engineering and Mapping Department at (276) 926-6107 these not only help others find your home but are essential to emergency response personnel.