Things to Remember When You Call 9-1-1

Top Tips for Calling 911

Only call 911 if you have a police, fire or medical emergency.  In non-emergency situation please call the Sumter County Sheriff's Office at (352) 569-1600 for law enforcement related questions or (352) 689-4400 for general Sumter County information.

Call 911

  • to report a fire
  • to stop a crime in progress or about to occur
  • to report an accident
  • for serious medical problems
  • when life or property is endangered

DO NOT call 911

  • for routine law enforcement inquires
  • for weather information
  • for directions
  • for directory assistance
  • to complain about loud noises from neighbors to report utility problems

If you call 911 on a cell phone, your location may not automatically display as it does when calling from most home/business phones.

 Tips for calling 911

  • Is a person hurt or in danger? Do you need the police, fir or ambulance?
  • If you do call 911, even by mistake, DO NOT hang up the phone.
  • When calling 911 do your best to stay calm and answer all questions.
  • Help the 911 call take help you.  Listen and answer questions asked.
  • Know the location of the emergency.
  • Teach your children how to call 911.
  • Prank calls to 911 waste time and are illegal in most states.
  • Post your address clearly and prominently at your entrance and on your home.  Do not assume since your mailbox is marked you have posted your address.
  • Know the phones you own.  Educate everyone about the phone system in your home as well as your cell phone.


Contact Us

  1. Emergency: Call 9-1-1; text if you cannot call

    9-1-1 Administration during business hours: call (352)689-4400 

    TDD: Florida 7-1-1; for emergencies dial / text 9-1-1

    Public Records