9-1-1 IS FOR EMERGENCIES ONLY; IN AN EMERGENCY SECONDS COUNT. For non-emergencies, please call 815-726-2491.

IMPORTANT: Dispatchers are highly trained professionals that are asking a series of questions in a certain order to obtain accurate information to determine an appropriate emergency response while also considering the safety of the Citizens and First Responders. The questions being asked are not delaying any response.

When you call 9-1-1 you will be asked:

• The location of the emergency– Dispatchers are required to confirm your address, so even if your address is given; you will be asked to confirm.  Sometimes there is not an exact address, so you need to be aware of your surroundings. You will be asked for landmarks or mile markers around you to help emergency responders locate you.
• What is occurring– what type of help is needed – Police/Fire/EMS.
• Where you are calling from– where you are calling from might be different from the location of the emergency.
• Your name and phone number.  Even if you choose to remain anonymous; you will be asked this information in case the Dispatcher or Officer needs to call you back.
• Additional questions will be asked, depending on your call. The 9-1-1 dispatcher will ask additional questions, based on the situation. Additionally the 9-1-1 dispatcher may also provide instructions, including pre-arrival medical instructions as needed.

Additional information you should know:

• You can send a text to 9-1-1, but if at all possible call 9-1-1.
• When using a cell phone, your exact location may not be known to the 9-1-1 dispatcher. You will have to give them your location.
• Stay calm – speak in a normal tone of voice so the 9-1-1 dispatcher can understand you.
• Listen and answer all questions from the 9-1-1 dispatcher. Answering questions does not delay help being sent.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I call 9-1-1?

• Call 9-1-1 if someone is hurt or in danger and are in need of Police, Fire or Emergency Medical assistance.
• Call 9-1-1 even if you aren’t sure if the situation is an emergency. The 9-1-1 dispatcher will determine if help should be sent or not.

When should I NOT to call 9-1-1?

• DO NOT call 9-1-1 if you need directions.
• DO NOT call 9-1-1 to report a past tense crime.
• DO NOT call 9-1-1 if you need a phone number, special event hours, or for any other city service.

One more tip:

• If you call 9-1-1 by accident, stay on the phone and let the 9-1-1 dispatcher know that your call was an accident.  If contact is not made with the Dispatcher; they may have to send First Responders to check on your welfare.