Frequently Asked Questions | Life Threatening | Non-Life Threatening | Communications Center
Non Emergency Number: 727-6111
This number is normally used to report an incident that is non life threatening, or to request police assistance on less urgent matters. This number will take and act upon all emergency calls. Usually these calls will be used to report property damage accidents, reports of various crimes where the perpetrator is gone, and the primary function of the police will be information gathering and investigation. Also, incidents in progress which are of a less serious nature, such as nuisance calls, etc. should go to this number. Some other types of non emergency calls include: break in to a vehicle and the suspect is gone, theft of property when the suspect is gone, vandalism when the suspect is gone, or even cars blocking the streets or alleys.
What Other Information Can You Provide?
- The description of people to include sex, race, height, weight, age, clothing and any distinguishing features (glasses, facial hair, scars.)
- The description of a vehicle to include color, make, model, body style (2 door, station wagon, etc.) and the license number.
- Which way the suspect left. Were they running, or in a vehicle. Which direction were they going north, south, east or west?
Helpful Hints
- Always listen to the call taker for guidance.
- Call takers will ask certain questions for your safety, the safety of the public and the emergency responders.
- As the call taker is questioning you, the emergency help you need is being dispatched as you give information to the call taker. Information is entered into the CAD system and response units are assigned by a dispatcher. The response units may arrive while you are still on the phone.
- Remain on the line until you are told to hang up. The call taker may need more information or may need to give you further instructions.
- Be familiar with your area. We need to know exactly where you are.
- NEVER try to intervene in a crime in progress.
The highly trained Telecommunications Specialists in the Hampton Public Safety Communications Center dispatch Police, Firefighters and Emergency Medical Services to the scenes of emergencies, usually within minutes of the original call. While this job can be stressful, it is also very rewarding to contribute to the safety of the community. Our Telecommunications Specialists receive an extensive nine month training program, which covers data entry, answering phone calls, and dispatching emergency response services. Additional training is provided throughout their careers to introduce new information, build stronger skills, and to learn new concepts and procedures. Due to the sensitivity of the position, all Telecommunications Specialists must adhere to the high standards of the Hampton Police Division.