FAQs • Hampton, VA • CivicEngage

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Police - When to Call 9-1-1

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1. When should I call 9-1-1?: Use 9-1-1 to save a life, report a fire or stop a crime. 9-1-1 is for emergencies that are an immediate threat to life and property.

2. How does my call get to 9-1-1?

From your house or business phone, your address will determine which Emergency Communication Center you reach. Calling from a cell phone makes a difference. Cell phones are not associated with a specific address so we do not immediately know where you are. They transmit to the nearest cellular tower and from there to the pre-designated Emergency Communication Center.

You may reach an Emergency Communication Center that is not in the city you are in. If this happens you will be transferred to the proper Emergency Communication Center.
If you are calling from a cell phone, your call may be disconnected if the signal is lost. Be sure to call back if you are cut off.
When calling 9-1-1 on a cell phone, be sure to stop if you are in a moving vehicle. It is difficult to obtain all the information needed if you are getting further from the emergency

Special Note: Even deactivated cell phones can dial 9-1-1. It is especially important that if you give a child an old phone to play with as a toy, that you remove the battery prior to doing so. If you don't, the child will inadvertently dial 9-1-1, tying up the emergency lines.

3. Can I communicate with 9-1-1 if I am hearing or speech impaired?: Yes. If you are hearing or speech impaired, Hampton Emergency Communication Center is equipped with a Text Telephone (TTY) device to allow communications through your TTY device. We also use Virginia Relay Service. If you do not speak English, we can conference in a third party interpretation service that can help us communicate with you.

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