Why do the 911 operators ask so many questions when I call?
Call takers are trained to get as much information as possible to best determine the nature of the problem and it is seriousness. For the safety of the community and the responding police officers, it is critical that the call taker gets as much information as possible from the caller. On emergency calls, the officer is usually already in route to the scene while the call taker is still gathering additional information from the caller. That additional information is being radioed to the responding officers while they are driving to the scene.


We thank you for your cooperation in answering the questions necessary for the responding officers to best assist you with your situation.

Show All Answers

1. How do I obtain a copy of a police report?
2. Do I have to come to the police station to make a report?
3. Can I make a police report over the telephone?
4. Can the police help me with a dispute with my landlord?
5. What should I do if I'm pulled over by the police?
6. If I want to report something that is not an emergency, do I call 911 or another number?
7. Why does it take officers longer to respond to some calls than others?
8. Why don't I see more officers patrolling my neighborhood?
9. Why do the 911 operators ask so many questions when I call?
10. Can I call the police department to report a problem and still remain anonymous?
11. Is there a waiting period before I can report somebody as missing?
12. Can I use 911 on my cellphone to report an emergency or drunk driver on the road?
13. Can the Summit Police help me if I lock my keys in my car?
14. Does the police department ever contact citizens asking for donations over the phone?