When I call the police for service, what information should I have ready to give them?

The information needed will vary based on what is being reported. The following is a list of questions that could be asked when you call for police service. Not all questions will be applicable to every call. The communications operator is going to want to know:

  1. What is occurring or has occurred?
  2. The location of the occurrence?
  3. Your location if different from occurrence.
  4. Your name and phone number. (Anonymous calls are accepted and responded to.)
  5. The time of the occurrence.
  6. Are there any injuries?
  7. Is anyone intoxicated?
  8. Are there weapons involved?
  9. How many people involved?
  10. What is the description of the people involved (gender, race, hair color, eye color, height, weight, scars, tattoos, clothing, etc.)?
  11. What is the description of the vehicles involved (tag, color, make, model, year)?
  12. What was the direction of travel for anyone leaving the scene on foot or in a vehicle?
  13. Are there any witnesses?
  14. Are there any animals at the house? Inside or outside?
  15. Is the location fenced? Are there any clotheslines or pools?
  16. Has anyone been outside?

Questions 14-16 are necessary for the safety of approaching officers. Also, if police K-9s are used, this information will assist in effectively deploying the dogs.

Show All Answers

1. Where is the Portage Police Division?
2. Where do I visit/communicate with someone the police have arrested?
3. How can I start a Neighborhood Watch in my neighborhood?
4. How can I get my fingerprints taken?
5. When I call the police for service, what information should I have ready to give them?
6. What should I do if a police officer stops me while I am driving?
7. Can I report a crime without having a police officer come to my home/business?