Contact Us
Berkeley, MO 63134
- Phone: (314) 524-3311
- Fax:
(314) 264-2198 - Staff Directory
- Hours: 24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week
Emergencies: Call 9-1-1
Anonymous Crime Tip Hotline:
(314) 400-3847
In this Department
More Information
Communications
The City of Berkeley operates as the city’s primary 911 answering point and fields calls requesting a response from police, fire and EMS-Emergency Medical Services (ambulance). All calls requiring the Fire Department or EMS are immediately transferred to the appropriate dispatcher, while calls for police service are handled by our employees. Our dispatch center handles more than 16,000 calls per year.
When Should I Call 911? When I Should I Use the Non-Emergency Number?
It is important to understand when you should call 911 and when you would be better served by using the Police Department’s non-emergency number of 314-524-3311.
You should call 911
- When any life threatening situation arises that requires a response from the police, fire department or EMS.
- To report fires and medical emergencies.
- When a crime is in progress and the suspect is still on the scene or has just fled.
- There is an intruder in your home or business or if you suspect an intruder could be inside your home or business. Do not attempt to confront these individuals, call 911 immediately!
- For any violent crime including homicides, robberies, assaults, domestic assaults and sexual assaults.
- For car accidents when: there are people injured and/or there is significant property damage and/or there is danger to other motorists and/or there are significant traffic problems as a result of the accident.
You should call the non-emergency number of 314-524-3311
- In the event you do not have an emergency but need to ask a question or speak to police. Dispatchers will do their best to point you in the right direction. Please note, however, no legal advice can be given by call takers.
- For property crimes when there is no known suspect at or near the scene and it is believed the incident occurred some time ago (for example, a car break-in that occurred overnight but was discovered in the morning; a burglary discovered after you’ve returned from several days out of town). It is important to note that regardless of the situation, if you feel there is immediate danger, call 911.
What to Expect during a 911 Call
When a 911 call is received, it is answered by a dispatcher. The dispatcher is trained to get as much information as possible in a timely manner. Callers should answer the dispatcher’s questions and follow instructions to prevent a delay in emergency response.
There are a number of questions dispatchers may ask including:
- What is your address or location?
- What is your name and telephone number? (You do have the right to remain anonymous if you so choose)
- Why do you need assistance?
- When did the incident occur?
- Was there a weapon involved?
- Who committed the crime? Are they still at the scene? Can you provide a description?
No matter the situation, you must provide the dispatcher with your location at the beginning of the call in order for help to be sent. Please understand that the dispatchers are attempting to maintain control and provide you with prompt service to ensure your safety.