Dealing With Police

Here are some tips when you need a police officer dispatched to your home.

When you call the police department and request an officer, you will be asked a series of questions by a dispatcher. These questions are to ensure an effective response. Try to remain calm and answer the questions as best you can. Some of the questions you might be asked:

* Why are you calling the police?

* Are you calling to report a crime?

* Is it in progress?

* Has it already occurred?

* Are you calling to report a traffic accident?

* Are there injuries?

* Is it a non-injury accident?

* Are you calling to report a disturbance?

* Is it a family dispute?

* Is it a fight on the street?

* Are there any guns?

* Are you calling to report a suspicious activity? What kind? Where? What is the location? Exact address. Street number and/or apartment number.

* What is the cross street?

* What is your name?

* What telephone number are you calling from?

* Are there any suspicious persons?

* What is their description?

* Do they have a weapon? What kind? (rifle, gun, knife)

* Do they have a vehicle? Make, model, color. License plate number.

* Which direction did they go?

While you are talking to the police dispatcher, an officer is being sent to your address. Try to remain calm. Do not hang up until the police have arrived or you have been instructed to do so by the dispatcher. A key question the police will ask you is if you can describe the suspect:

* Sex, age, race.

* Height, weight, build, hair color, eye color, mustache, beard, hat.

* Glasses, complexion.

* Color and type of clothing.

* Shirt: long or short sleeve.

* Jacket: leather or nylon.

* Pants: long or short.

* Shoes: tennis/

dress/boots.

* Dress or skirt.

* Other physical markings.

* Special characteristics or mannerisms that will aid you in describing them. Any peculiarities such as tattoos, scars, birthmarks and prominent physical features.

* Any special jewelry such as class rings or objects with names or initials.

* Type of vehicle used in getaway, and if possible, the license number.

* Do not, however, jeopardize yourself trying to get this information.

Sources: Fullerton Police Department, Times reports