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1. What happens when I call 9-1-1?

You will reach the dispatch center in the jurisdiction from which you are calling. If you are calling from a landline, the dispatch center will receive a screen showing the number you are calling from, the address, and the name associated with that phone number. The dispatcher will confirm that information to eliminate any errors.

2. What do I say when I call 9-1-1 from a landline at a home or business?

Give your address and state your emergency. The dispatcher will have several questions for you. Try to stay calm and answer all of the questions. While the dispatcher is getting the information from you, another dispatcher is sending the appropriate emergency personnel to the call.

3. What if I dial 9-1-1 by mistake?

Stay on the line and let the dispatcher know that you dialed in error. If you hang up without speaking to anyone officers will be dispatched to the location to assure that everything is ok.

4. When should I call 9-1-1?

In a life or death emergency. To report a serious crime in progress. To call for emergency medical help. To report a fire.

5. What about 9-1-1 and cell phones?

If you are using a cell phone, you will reach the jurisdiction of the cell tower that your phone is accessing. The dispatcher will not have an exact location of where you are. It is important to have an address or business name when you call so that a location can be determined.

6. Which number should I call for non-emergency situations?

The non-emergency phone number for the Wheat Ridge Police Department is 303-237-2220.

7. Who do I call for general police information?

The telephone reporting unit is a good place to call first at 303-980-7300. If you are calling after hours or no one is available, you can dial the non-emergency police department number at 303-237-2220.

8. I'm going out of town on vacation. What do I need to do?

Please call the non-emergency number at 303-237-2220 to have your address placed on a list for extra patrol or vacation watch.

9. Can I call with information and not give my name?

You can remain anonymous but it is much more helpful in the long run if police have your contact information in case questions arise later in an investigation.

10. How can I find more information on police activity during weekends?

You can contact dispatch at 303-237-2220 for general inquiries but for specific information you will need to contact our records bureau, Monday through Friday 8-5, at 303-235-2921.

11. How do I report an abandoned vehicle located on a public street?

Vehicles parked on the street must be legally registered and operable. Any member of the police department who has reasonable grounds to believe that a vehicle has been abandoned shall require such vehicle to be removed by the owner or the vehicle will be towed and placed in storage at a city designated impound lot. If you have concerns about a vehicle parked on the street contact the Wheat Ridge Police Department non-emergency number 303-237-2220 and an officer will respond to make a determination.

12. How do I report a missing person/runaway?

Filing a missing person or runaway report is done on a case-by-case basis. Runaway and missing persons reports can be made at the Wheat Ridge Police Department, 7500 W. 29th Avenue or by calling 303-237-2220. There is no waiting period mandated for reporting a missing person or runaway. However, all attempts should be made to locate the missing person or runaway prior to making a police report.

13. When can I report a runaway?

There is no waiting period mandated for reporting a missing person or runaway. Reports can be made at the Wheat Ridge Police Department, 7500 W. 29th Avenue or by calling 303-237-2220. However all attempts should be made to locate the missing person or runaway prior to making a police report. Age/history/etc. sometime dictate when the police accept a runaway report versus taking a more proactive role (possible child abduction). Parents are held legally responsible for the safety and welfare of their children. Therefore, they should report their child as a runaway unless they are confident the child is living in a safe and satisfactory environment.

14. How do I report a crime?

To report a crime in progress, a medical emergency, or a fire, call 911. For all other reports, call the non-emergency line 303-237-2220.

15. Who should I call to report hazardous waste?

If a release of known or suspected hazardous materials is observed, call 911. Stay away from the material and keep others away. Allow only trained personnel to respond to this type of situation. Again, please dial 911 to report any hazardous material release.

16. I have more information regarding a crime I reported. Who do I call?

If you have additional information on a case (such as discovering more property is missing or locating serial numbers for stolen property) you should call the non-emergency line at 303-237-2220 and ask to make a “supplemental report”. An officer may be sent to take the information or you may be able to provide this information via phone or fax. The supplemental information will then be forwarded to the officer or detective working the case.