Emergency and Non-Emergency Numbers

911 & Dispatch


When should I call 911?

  • When you have a Police, Fire, or Medical emergency.
  • There is a situation that could, or does pose a danger to life, property, or both.

Remain calm and patient while the 9-1-1 call taker asks you questions. 9-1-1 call takers are trained to ask specific questions that quickly determine what is wrong, and what type of assistance to send. Please stay on the line until the call-taker tells you to hang up. Learn more about calling 911 - English and Spanish versions are available. For additional resources, visit South Sound 911.

What is the non-emergency number?
 (253) 287-4455 or (800) 562-9800

When should I call the non-emergency number?

  • You want to report a nuisance, such as noise or parking complaint.
  • To report a non-emergency crime - one that did not just occur, and the suspects are not in the immediate area.
  • You have questions about something suspicious occurring in your neighborhood, and you are not sure it is criminal activity.

Area Wide Emergencies

  • In the case of an area-wide emergency, do not use your telephone for the first few hours following the event unless you have a life-threatening emergency and need to call 9-1-1.

Text-to-911

Text-to-911 is NOT a method of convenience. The service is intended to benefit people who may not be able to speak or hear in an emergency. A voice call is still the preferred and most efficient method of contacting 911. Simply stated, call if you can, text if you can't.

CALL IF YOU CAN, TEXT IF YOU CAN'T

For more info regarding the Text-to-911 service through South Sound 911 please visit Text-to-911.

For more info regarding Text-to-911 service throughout Washington State visit WA State EMD.

Emergency Health Profile

Residents in Pierce County can create a free Emergency Health Profile at emergencyprofile.org to voluntarily share medical information with South Sound 911 in case of an emergency and 911 is called.

By creating an Emergency Health Profile (or using your iPhone’s Medical ID feature), your relevant emergency information will be shared with public safety personnel through the RapidSOS emergency response data platform used by South Sound 911. The information you provide is not used for any purpose other than delivering important information to first responders during an active 911 call. You may include information about yourself or others in your home, such as children or special needs individuals, and can include behavioral health information, pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, disabilities, emergency contacts, and more.