Calling UPD
Understanding how to contact the University Police Department effectively ensures campus safety. Following a few simple steps can help you receive the assistance you need when it matters most. Here are some valuable tips to ensure your call to the UPD is clear, concise, and leads to the best possible outcome.
Overview
When you need immediate assistance from police, fire, or ambulance, dial 911. Use the non-emergency phone line at 979-845-2345 for non-urgent situations.
Dialing 911
911 should only be used for emergencies. An emergency is any situation that requires immediate assistance from police, fire, or ambulance services.
How to Call 911 from Different Locations
From a Campus Phone: Dial 911
From Health Science and Reynolds Medical Science Building: Dial 911
Emergencies Include:
- Serious medical issues such as chest pain, seizures, or severe bleeding
- Uncontrolled or unsupervised fires
- Life-threatening situations or serious crimes in progress
- Car accidents
Calling the Non-Emergency Phone Line
Non-Emergency Phone: 979-845-2345
- Use the non-emergency line to report non-urgent incidents, such as:
- Property damage accidents (like fender benders)
- Vehicle break-ins (when the suspect is no longer present)
- Theft (when the suspect is no longer present)
- Vandalism (when the suspect is no longer present)
- Panhandling
- Parking violations
What to Do When Calling 911
- Dial 911 (You won't need money if using a payphone).
- Inform the 911 operator of your needs—whether you need an ambulance, firefighters, or police assistance.
- Stay calm—speak clearly so the operator can gather essential information quickly.
- Provide detailed information about the situation, including suspect descriptions, weapons, vehicle details, and license plate numbers.
- Stay on the line—do not hang up!
- Provide your name and street address, especially if it differs from the location of the incident.
Important Note: Do Not Hang Up if You Dial 911
If you accidentally dial 911, remain on the line. If you hang up before confirming there is no emergency, dispatchers must send police to your location to verify the situation.
Verification of Address and Phone Number
Emergency operators will verify your address and phone number to ensure the listing is accurate. If you live in a mobile home park, condominium, or on a private road, your address may differ from what the phone company has on file. Contact City Engineering to confirm your legal street address.
Only Call 911 for Emergencies
Misusing the 911 system for anything other than reporting an emergency is a crime. If someone is injured or killed because of a false call, it is considered a felony.
Always Listen to the Dispatcher
All 911 calls are handled by trained Communication Officers who quickly screen calls. They will ask questions about your and the officer's safety. Remember, their inquiries do not indicate that help is not on the way. Information is entered into a computer and dispatched to the appropriate units.