Make the Right Call: Use 9-1-1 for Emergencies

What is an emergency?

Emergency can mean different things to different people depending on the circumstances. However there are certain times everyone should turn to 9-1-1 for help. Call 9-1-1 immediately if the situation involves:

• An immediate danger to life or property
• A fire
• A crime in progress
• A medical emergency
• Someone needing mental health services

If you can't call, Text 9-1-1. Text messages only, do not include photos or videos.  9-1-1 by text is only available in English at this time.

What to say when you call

One of the most important things you can do is remain calm. Speak clearly and provide as much detail as you can about what is happening and about your location including an address, major intersections, or landmarks. Providing this information helps operators get first responders to the scene as quickly as possible. Remember, 9-1-1's top priority focus is to get you the help you need.  Operators are not concerned with and will NEVER ask about your immigration status.

Non Emergency Resources

If you do not have an immediate emergency but still need assistance there are several resources available:

Austin 3-1-1

Dial 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000

When you dial 3-1-1, your call is answered by a City of Austin ambassador.  Ambassadors are available to answer any question, or assist with any issue you may have regarding City of Austin departments or services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. You can also  complete a Service Request online for many City of Austin services. You can also use the  Austin 3-1-1 mobile app to report potholes, graffiti, loose dogs, and more.  Visit the Austin 3-1-1 website to learn more about all of its services.

iReport Austin

Visit ireportaustin.com

You can file a report for non-emergency incidents with the Austin Police Department(APD) 24 hours a day, seven days a week year-round using APD's online incident reporting system ireportaustin.com. The portal is for incidents that are no longer in progress, when the suspect(s) are no longer on scene or in sight, or when there is no immediate threat to life or property.  Examples of reports include:

• Assault or Threats

• Threats (Terroristic Threat and Assault by Threat)

• Burglary

• Criminal Mischief

• Fraud

• Harassment

• Crash in which the other driver is leaving the scene (Hit & Run)

• Incident involving a motor vehicle

• Lost Property

• Theft

Mental Health Services

Call 512-472-HELP (4357)

If you or someone you know is experiencing a  need of mental health crisis, or is in need of immediate mental health services, help is available via the Integral Care  24/7 mental health crisis hotline 512-472-HELP (4357).

For more information on community mental health services, visit Integral Care's website.