South Sound 911 Rolls Out New Non-Emergency Number

PIERCE COUNTY, WA — South Sound 911 is rolling out a new non-emergency number for Pierce County residents who need help, but aren't in immediate danger.

The new number is: 253-287-4455. It replaces the old non-emergency number, 253-798-4721, which is being phased out over the next couple of months. Organizers say it's a good time to update the Rolodex now, so residents don't end up calling the old line after it has been disconnected.

Like the old non-emergency number, South Sound 911 says the new number is one residents can call if they need help, but don't require an immediate response from firefighters, police or medics.

“Calling 911 is what sends the cavalry – lights and sirens – to the most tragic life-or-death emergencies; we just ask that the public help us keep 911 available for those who need it most urgently,” said South Sound 911 Executive Director Deborah Grady.

South Sound 911 has given a few example situations when it might be better to call the non-emergency number, like:

• Reporting a burglary that happened while you were not around.
• Finding signs of vandalism long after the fact.
• Fireworks complaints or other noise complaints.

That said, when in doubt, they say it's better to call 911 if you're unsure — and that it's always better to be safe than sorry.

South Sound 911 handles calls for 38 police and fire agencies across Pierce County. Last year their non-emergency line took 356,314 calls. They also received 527,033 regular 911 calls.