911 vs Non-Emergency Line vs Crime Stoppers: Which Should You Call?
Knowing who to contact can help you get the right support quickly, without putting yourself at risk. The best option depends on whether there is immediate danger, an active situation or information you want to share discreetly.
Why choosing the right number matters
Some situations need an urgent response, while others need reporting and follow-up. Using the right service helps ensure emergency resources are available for people who need them most.
If you are unsure and feel someone may be at risk, it is safer to treat it as urgent.
Call 911 for immediate danger
Call 911 if there is an emergency happening right now or someone needs urgent help.
This includes situations like:
- Someone is being threatened or harmed
- A violent incident is happening or has just happened
- A break-in is in progress
- A serious road collision or medical emergency
- You feel unsafe and need help immediately
If you are in danger, focus on getting to safety first. Do not confront anyone or try to intervene.
Use the non-emergency police line for non-urgent reports
Use the police non-emergency line (211) when something is concerning or criminal, but there is no immediate threat to life or safety and no urgent response is needed.
This may include:
- A crime discovered after it happened (for example, theft you noticed later)
- Ongoing nuisance issues that are not escalating
- Suspicious activity where there is no immediate danger
- Property damage found after the fact
- Follow-up information for a report already made
If you are not sure whether it is an emergency, consider the key question: Is someone in immediate danger right now? If yes, call 911.
Use Crime Stoppers when you want to stay anonymous
Crime Stoppers is the right option when you have information about a crime but don’t want to share your identity, or you’re worried about being involved.
This can include:
- Information about who may be responsible for a crime
- Details about illegal activity in the community
- Concerns you have observed over time
- Information you think police should know, even if you are unsure
Crime Stoppers is not designed for emergencies happening right now. If there is immediate danger, call 911 first.
When you’re unsure what to do
If a situation feels urgent or unsafe, call 911.
If it is not urgent but you want police to be aware, use the non-emergency line.
If you have information but want to report without giving your name, use Crime Stoppers.
Report crime anonymously
Crime Stoppers Bermuda allows you to share information without giving your name or personal details. Calls are not recorded or traced, and online reports do not collect identifying information.
Call 800-8477 or use our online form to report a crime anonymously.
