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I don't think it's possible to make an anonymous 911 call unless you're using a public phone. I think this is ok, since 911 is specifically for emergencies and
by jakebasile 8y ago
I don't think it's possible to make an anonymous 911 call unless you're using a public phone. I think this is ok, since 911 is specifically for emergencies and you generally want the police/EMS to know where you are immediately since seconds can count. I think of it a bit like implied consent in first aid: by calling 911 you are inherently consenting for your location to be shared since it is likely you are in some form of distress requiring that information.
You're mentioning things like organized crime reporting, which are not emergencies. In that case, I'd expect someone to talk to someone in the police department in person, or through an intermediary lawyer - not 911.
edit: added the implied consent thought
- striking 8y agoThere are also tip lines that you can call from payphones and such.
- NedIsakoff 8y agoBuy a cheap phone with cash. Call 911.
- hhh 8y agoBetter yet, use the victim's phone if possible.
- VectorLock 8y agoHey dying person, whats your PIN code?
- bluejekyll 8y agoThey have an emergency mode for a reason...
- jakebasile 8y agoEvery cell phone has a way to bypass the lock to call 911 or local equivalent emergency number. It'll even work if the phone line is disabled for some reason, or if the phone doesn't have a SIM.
- VectorLock 8y agoI know.
- matt_the_bass 8y agoI’m curious want the statistics are for this usage. Does anyone do this in practice?
- emptybits 8y ago> You're mentioning things like organized crime reporting, which are not emergencies. I may have been unclear but I said crime "taking place", implying crime in progress. I think any serious crime in progress (theft, assault, murder, etc.) deserves urgent attention, regardless of it being undertaken by mafia or gangs or amateurs or professionals.