Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I expect when calling 9-1-1?
    • The call receiver will identify as 911, and ask if you need police, fire or medical assistance. If you need fire or medical assistance you may be transferred to another dispatch center.
    • You will be asked the location of the emergency. Be prepared to give the address, businesses, or street with hundred block or cross street.
    • You will be asked to explain exactly what is going on. This could include the following:
      • Describing the activity witnessed.
      • Description information on the other party or vehicle.
      • If any weapons are involved.
      • How long ago the event occurred.
    • Your contact information which could include your full legal name, date of birth and callback phone number.
      • You can remain anonymous if requested.
  • Why do I need to give you my location, don’t you already know that when I call 9-1-1?
    • Call receivers will always ask you to verify the location of the emergency because you may be calling from a different location.
    • Cell phone data is not 100% accurate. Location information can fluctuate based on the on the type of phone, carrier service or if you are inside or outside a building.
    • Phone services that use VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology rely on the subscriber updating address information to their provider. If you move and do not update the address with your VoIP provider, your call may be answered by a 9-1-1 center associated with your former address.
  • When I call 9-1-1 why do I get transferred to another agency?
    • There are 12 separate 9-1-1 centers in King County that cover different geographical locations.
    • Some 911 centers provide services for police, fire and medical, while others may only provide services for police.
    • When you call 9-1-1 the closest cell tower to you may be outside of the jurisdictional boundary, or even across a county line.
  • Why does jurisdiction matter?
    • Jurisdiction refers to the geographic area of enforcement for law enforcement agencies.
    • Enumclaw Police Department can only take reports for crimes that occur inside the City limits.
    • When necessary nearby agencies will request our assistance.
  • I have an Enumclaw address, why am I not in your jurisdiction?
    • There are three jurisdictions that cover address in Enumclaw.
      • Enumclaw PD – Inside the City boundary
      • King County Sheriff’s Office – Outside City boundary in what is referred to as “unincorporated” Enumclaw. By definition unincorporated refers to the part of the county that is outside any municipality.
      • Pierce County Sheriff’s Office – This refers to addresses east of town in the Greenwater area. Depending on the exact address Pierce County or King County may be the responsible law enforcement agency.
        • Even though Greenwater is 18 miles east of town, addressing is based on zip code and post office. Enumclaw is the closest post office for Greenwater.