For Immediate Release: December 18, 2023 OPD NEWS: Know When to Call 911
Emergencies can happen to anyone, at any time. That's why it's crucial to understand when and how to use the 911 emergency response system. The Oakland Police Department (OPD) aims to educate and promote the effective and responsible usage of 911, ensuring that help arrives when needed most. As of November 30, 2023, OPD’s 911 dispatch center received 1,171,237 calls, averaging 106,000 per month.
OPD would like to remind our community to only call 911 for life-threatening emergencies. Dial 911 immediately for situations that pose a risk to life, health, property, or public safety. Examples include fires, medical crises, accidents with injuries, and crimes in progress.
When you call 911, please remember:
Stay Calm and Clear: When calling 911, remain as calm as possible. Speak clearly, providing your location and details of the emergency. Accurate information helps dispatchers send the right resources.
Know Your Location: Precise location information is vital. Use landmarks, street names, and nearby businesses to help responders locate you quickly.
Non-Emergency Situations: For non-life-threatening issues, use non-emergency numbers. This helps keep 911 lines open for genuine emergencies and reduces response times for critical situations.
Teach Your Family: Ensure that everyone in your household, including children, knows how and when to dial 911.
OPD and the Oakland Fire Department took part in a Public Service Announcement (PSA) video to educate our community on when to call 911. The videos are available in multiple languages.
