Defining an Emergency

What is an Emergency?


An emergency is any serious medical problem, type of fire, or other life-threatening situation that requires a police, fire, or medical response. You are also urged to call 911 to report crimes that are in progress, whether or not a life is threatened. Examples of an emergency are:
  • Any suspected or actual fire (get out and then call)
  • A smoke detector sounding
  • Domestic violence
  • Child abuse or neglect
  • Heart attack
  • Suicidal persons
  • Poisoning
  • Carbon monoxide detector sounding (get out and then call)
  • Small child locked in car
  • Explosions seen or heard
  • Burglary in progress
  • Weapon used or gunshots heard
  • Any in-progress crime 
  • Traffic accident with injuries

What is NOT an Emergency?


There are several types of calls in which police, fire, or medical help is needed, but not immediate. Generally, non-emergency calls are not occurring at the time of the call and there is no immediate threat to life or property. In non-emergency situations you would call the Davidson Police Non-Emergency number at 704-892-5131. Examples of non-emergencies are:
  • A crime no longer in progress
  • Reporting a stolen bike
  • Minor injuries like a cut finger
  • Reporting a non-injury traffic accident
  • Graffiti
  • Animals in trees
  • A toothache
  • Panhandling / prostitution
  • Stolen car
  • Noise complaints
  • Disabled vehicles
  • Kids skateboarding on the sidewalk