HOW TO USE 9-1-1

911 OfficerDial 9-1-1 in an emergency. An emergency is defined as any situation in which there is an immediate threat to life or property and IMMEDIATE action or assistance is needed.

Examples of when to call 9-1-1:
  • Someone may be having a heart attack.
  • Someone is breaking into your home.
  • There is a fire in your neighbor's garage.

What to say when you call 9-1-1:

  • Immediately state the problem such as, "There is an accident on the corner of State Street and Grand Avenue."
  • After stating the problem, listen carefully and answer the questions the dispatcher asks.
  • Answering the questions does NOT slow the response of the emergency vehicles; this assists the emergency personnel in determining the best equipment and knowledge to best serve the involved parties.

Non Emergencies:

Some situations may warrant the services of the police department but do not require IMMEDIATE action to protect property or life. In these cases, the business line of the Carlsbad Police Department communications center should be called at (760) 931-2197. It is important to use the business line in non-emergencies so that the 9-1-1 phone lines remain available for emergencies.

Examples of when to call the Dispatch Center (760) 931-2197 and NOT 9-1-1:
  • You woke up in the morning and your car was gone.
  • You have been receiving harassing phone calls.
  • You were in a traffic collision the previous day and need to file a report.

Print out this pamphlet and keep it near your phone!
How to call the Carlsbad Police Department and what to say
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