When to call 911?

To call 911 in an emergency, simply unlock your phone and access the dialer app. On an iPhone, tap the green phone icon, then enter 911 and press the call button. If your phone is locked, you can also press the side button five times quickly to initiate an emergency call. For Android devices, open the dialer, input 911, and hit the call button. Many Android phones also allow you to call 911 directly from the lock screen by tapping "Emergency" and entering the number. Always stay calm, speak clearly, and provide the operator with your location and details about the emergency.

TEXT-to-911 System

Starting in 2018, the State of Connecticut mandated the creation and use of the TEXT-to-911 system across the state. To do this open your messaging app and start a new message, type “911” in the recipient field and in the message field include your location, and a description of the emergency. Send the message. Be ready to respond to any follow-up questions that may be asked, please be clear and concise.

Prepared Live

Prepared Live is a tool that helps 911 operators during emergencies by letting them see and hear what’s happening in real-time through audio and video from the caller’s phone. This helps operators understand the situation and give quicker more accurate help. It also allows emergency teams to get important information faster, improving overall response time and coordination. This program is completely voluntary and requires the caller’s consent. If the caller consents, they will receive a live steam link via text from the dispatcher.

Example of when to call 911

• When a suspicious person if wandering around near your home or your neighbor’s home.
• When you see fire and/or smoke.
• When you or someone nearby is in danger.
• When a crime has been committed or occurred recently.
• When someone is hurt of sick and needs an ambulance, even if the injury doesn’t look serious, they may be severe.

Example of when NOT to call 911

• When you are calling in a noise complaint like a loud party, or barking dogs.
• When you are reporting property issues such as vandalism or theft which have already occurred.
• When a traffic signal is malfunctioning or not working.
• When you are reporting lost items.
• When you are reporting minor traffic incidents such as road rage (which are not urgent), or minor car accidents with no injuries.

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