When to Call 9-1-1

9-1-1 is the number to call when you need help in an emergency!

An emergency is when something happens and you need the police, firemen, or an ambulance.  For example, if you see your neighbor's house on fire, that's an emergency!  If someone falls down and is badly hurt, that's an emergency too!  But, if your cat is stuck in a tree, that's not an emergency. 

9-1-1 is not the number to use if you just need help from an adult or for pets.  You should only call 9-1-1 in a real emergency - never as a joke!

WHEN to call 9-1-1:

• when lives are at risk
• when you need the police, fire department, or paramedics

When you should NOT call 9-1-1:

• when there is no emergency
• for animals (except when they pose a threat to the safety of a person)
• as a game or prank
• for a joke
• to practice