Contacting the Police for Advice in the US: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to Emergency Services in the US

The United States has a robust system of law enforcement, with over 18,000 local police departments at the state and municipal levels. Each department is responsible for keeping its jurisdiction safe and responding to a wide range of incidents from minor traffic violations to major criminal cases. This article will provide you with the essential information on how to contact the police for advice in the US, whether you are in an emergency or need non-emergency assistance.

Key Components of the US Law Enforcement System

At the national level, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) handle major criminal cases, national security threats, and border security. State and local law enforcement agencies, on the other hand, are responsible for day-to-day policing within their jurisdictions. This includes patrol, traffic control, and responding to emergencies. Each police department has its own hierarchy, ranging from the chief of police or sheriff down to patrol officers and administrative staff.

Emergency and Non-Emergency Contacts

When in immediate danger or if there is an urgent situation, you should call 911. This is the universal emergency number for the United States. It connects you directly to emergency services, including the police, fire department, and medical responders. However, if your situation is not an emergency, contacting the police via non-emergency phone numbers is recommended to avoid tying up emergency lines.

Many police departments provide a non-emergency phone number or a 24/7 hotline for advisory services and non-urgent inquiries. These numbers are typically listed on their respective websites or can be found through a quick online search by including the specific town or city name. For example, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has a non-emergency number at 213-485-3232, while the New York City Police Department (NYPD) provides a hotline at 212-788-2222.

Accessing Information Online

The internet is a valuable resource for finding local police contact information. Most police departments have comprehensive websites that include not only emergency and non-emergency phone numbers but also details on community policing initiatives, crime prevention programs, and other educational resources. These websites often have a ‘Contact Us’ section where visitors can find information on how to reach the police, either by phone, email, or in person.

For instance, let's look at the website of the Chicago Police Department (CPD). Their website at offers a clear and easy-to-navigate section for contacting the police. Beside the large map of Chicago, there is a section titled 'Contact Us', which lists the main non-emergency phone number at 312-747-6911. Other resources on the site include FAQ sections, community engagement events, and links to ongoing investigations and crime updates.

Importance of Community Policing

Community policing is a strategy that emphasizes building trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the community. By offering non-emergency advisory services, local police departments can proactively engage with the public, address minor concerns, and provide guidance without occupying precious emergency resources. This approach helps maintain the safety and well-being of the community while fostering a positive relationship between the police and the public.

For example, the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) has established a strong community policing presence. Their website at includes details on community boards, neighborhood patrols, and regular town hall meetings. The site also provides a Hotspot Tracker and a Community Policing page, where residents can report non-emergency concerns and receive advice from officers.

Final Thoughts

Contacting the police for advice is an important part of community safety. Whether you need emergency assistance or are seeking non-emergency advice, knowing the correct contacts can save both time and resources. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local law enforcement agency for guidance when needed. Remember to use the internet as a valuable tool to find and verify the appropriate numbers for your area.