What will the dispatcher ask you when you call 911?

When you call the Tustin Police Department and request a police officer, you will be asked a series of questions by a police dispatcher. These questions are designed to insure a more effective response. Try to remain calm and answer the questions as best you can. Some of the questions you might be asked are the following:

  • What are you calling to report: a crime, traffic accident, suspicious activity?
  • What is the location?
  • Exact address, including street number and/or apartment number.
  • When did this occur?
  • What is your name?
  • What telephone number are you calling from?
  • Are there any suspicious persons and how many?
  • What is their description? (The subject(s) race, sex, clothing, hair color, facial hair, eyeglasses, approximate height and weight, etc.)
  • Do they have a weapon? What kind? (Rifle, gun, knife, etc.)
  • Do they have a vehicle? (Make, model, color and license plate)
  • If they left, what direction did they go?
  • Do you want the police to contact you?


Important Note

Remember, that although it seems like a lot of questions, an officer is being sent to your address while you are talking to the Dispatcher. Try to remain calm and do not hang up until the Police have arrived, or you have been instructed to do so by the Dispatcher. Wait for the Police.

Show All Answers

1. When does someone call 911?
2. What will the dispatcher ask you when you call 911?
3. What if I dial 911 by mistake?
4. What if I don't speak English?