The Montgomery County Department of Police is reminding residents about the importance of knowing when to call 911 and when to use the county’s non-emergency line. The guidance, shared in a recent social media post, emphasizes that using the correct number helps ensure faster responses during true emergencies and keeps emergency lines open for those who need immediate help.
According to MCPD, 911 should always be used for life-threatening situations or incidents that are actively unfolding. This includes emergencies such as life-or-death medical issues, fires, and crimes that are in progress or have just occurred. Residents should call 911 right away to report assaults, robberies, burglaries, the sound of gunshots, and vehicle collisions involving injuries.
For all other situations that are not happening in real time, MCPD encourages residents to contact the non-emergency line at 301-279-8000. Examples include crimes that are no longer in progress, thefts from vehicles, parking or noise complaints, neighborhood concerns, road obstructions, and animal control issues.
The department notes that knowing which number to call helps officers prioritize urgent situations more effectively. MCPD summarized the message simply in its post: “If it’s life-threatening or happening right now, call 911. If it’s not in progress, call 301-279-8000. Keeping our community safe starts with knowing the right number.”
