911 is meant for emergencies only. Do not use 911 for directory assistance or non-emergency assistance. For non-emergency, 24-hour sheriff dispatch, call 507-334-4391. For general information from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., call 507-332-6000 or toll free 866-727-5299.
Examples of 911 emergencies
- Any medical emergencies
- Choking
- Fights or displays of weapons
- Fires
- Shooting
- Someone breaking into your home now or one of your neighbors' homes
- Traffic accidents
Examples of non-emergencies
- Abandoned vehicle
- Barking dog
- Loud party
- Power outage
- Vandalism
Remember 911 is not for jokes, it is for those who need help.
Never make a test call to 911. These test call occupy the dispatcher and tie up phone lines and equipment. The telephone company has designed 911 to be highly reliable, so it will work when you need it. Please keep the lines free for people who have emergencies.
Never call 911 and hang up. If you accidentally call 911 do not hang up, let the dispatcher know that you called accidentally. Enhanced 911 systems display to dispatchers both the calling telephone number and the location of the telephone. Most policies on "hang up" calls are to call back and attempt to verify if there is an emergency. If a dispatcher cannot verify, deputies are sent to the address. This ensures that a person who is incapacitated can receive help without having to talk on the phone. Unfortunately, most hang up calls are false and tie up valuable human resources and equipment, which may be needed elsewhere.