When there is an emergency, lives are in danger, serious injury, serious medical condition, crime in progress, or any other situation needing immediate attention.

Below are some examples of crime emergencies that should be reported by calling 9-1-1

• Fights, sexual assaults, etc.
• Homicides
• Burglaries and robberies
• Flashlight beam in a business or home, especially if the business is closed or the residents are away
• Domestic violence
• Child and elder abuse
• Sounds of gunshots, screaming, barking dogs, breaking glass, explosions, alarms, etc.
• Hit and run accidents with possible injuries
• Vehicles containing weapons or property not normally kept in vehicles
• Ongoing dumping of fuel or other hazardous substances
• Road hazards that require immediate attention to prevent personal injuries and property damage
• Graffiti and other acts of vandalism in progress
• Runaway juvenile or missing person who needs special care -- be sure to tell the operator if the person needs medication and has a special problem, e.g., Alzheimer's disease 

  Persons who are....

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Entering a neighbor's home when the neighbor is away
• Forcing an entry of a home, business, or vehicle
• Exhibiting unusual mental or physical symptoms that poses a threat to him/herself or others
• Removing property from a business, home, or vehicle, especially if the business is closed or the residents are away
• Carrying or wearing bloody clothing
• Struggling with a resisting child
• Trying to or actually using a vehicle to pick up a person by force, especially a child or female

 

Do I have to give my name when I call 9-1-1?
If you wish to remain anonymous or keep information confidential just tell the operator.

 

What should I do if I see a crime occurring ?

• Call 9-1-1 immediately.
• Be observant and make mental notes.
• Are there any weapons involved?
• What is the address?
• Any physical characteristics such as height, weight, race, beard, or scars?
• Any clothing description?
• How many people involved?
• Are the persons involved on foot or in a vehicle?

   

How do I teach my children to Use 9-1-1?

• Never say "nine eleven." There is no eleven on a telephone keypad or dial. Always say "nine-one-one."
• Always call from a safe place. If there is a fire in the house, get out first and then call.
• Post your address near the phone.
• Never call 9-1-1 as a prank or joke. You can get into trouble and keep someone who really needs help from getting it in time.
• 9-1-1 is not for animal emergencies. Leave the number for the vet next to the phone. If you need to reach the Dog Warden call (315) 737-7707.
• Call 9-1-1 if you think you have an emergency and explain the situation to the dispatcher. If you call 9-1-1 by mistake, don't hang up. Explain the mistake to the dispatcher and say there is NO EMERGENCY.

 

How can I get a copy of a police report?
Stop by the Vernon Police Department between the hours of 9 a.m.-5 p.m. or call the administrative line at (315) 829-4700 to leave a message for the chief. ALL REPORT REQUESTS REQUIRE CHIEF'S APPROVAL PRIOR TO THEIR RELEASE.

 

How do I report a crime?
The ability of the police to locate and arrest criminals often depends on the thoroughness and accuracy of the report you submit. The following information checklist should be used for reporting both emergency and non-emergency crimes:

• Type of crime
• Location: exact street address and nearest cross street
• Time of occurrence
• Weapons used
• Number of persons injured and types of injuries
• Vehicle information: type, license number, color, year, make, model, unusual characteristics (e.g., dents, bumper stickers), number of persons, etc.
•  Suspect information: race, gender, age, height, weight, hair color, hair length and style, eye color, facial hair, clothing type and color, other characteristics (e.g., tattoos, missing teeth, scars, glasses), direction of flight, etc.