People sometimes hesitate because they are unsure which reporting channel to use. The basic distinction is urgency: emergencies involve an immediate threat to safety or a crime in progress, while non-emergency channels handle concerns that do not require an immediate response.
Emergency situations
Use 9-1-1 when someone’s safety is at immediate risk, urgent medical or fire response is required, or a serious crime is happening.
Provide the location, explain what is happening and answer the call-taker’s questions as clearly as possible.
Non-emergency concerns
A past incident, suspicious activity that is no longer occurring, property crime discovered later or a general police concern may be appropriate for the non-emergency line or an available online report.
Reporting options can change, so residents should use the current HRPS reporting page.
What information helps
Useful information may include the time, location, description of what occurred, direction of travel, vehicle details and any photographs or documents that can be preserved safely.
Do not place yourself in danger to gather evidence.
Avoid public accusation
Posting a name or image online before facts are established can harm innocent people and interfere with formal processes.
Provide information to the appropriate authority and preserve the original material.
When uncertain
The official reporting page explains available channels. If circumstances change and immediate safety becomes a concern, use the emergency channel.