If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911 now. If you cannot speak safely, stay on the line if you can; in many areas you can also text 911. Check with your local service whether text-to-911 is available where you are.
Immediate steps
- Get to a safer place if you can do so safely: a locked room, a neighbor’s home, or a busy public place.
- Call 911 and say where you are first, then what is happening. Answer the dispatcher’s questions and follow their instructions.
- Do not confront anyone who is threatening you. Your safety comes before property or proving a point.
- Help others only if it is safe. Point emergency responders to anyone who is injured.
- Stay reachable. Keep your phone with you and charged if possible.
Mental health crisis
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or is in emotional distress, call or text 988 (the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the United States). If there is immediate danger to life, call 911.
After you are safe
- Write down what happened, when and where, while it is fresh.
- Keep any messages, photos or other records.
- Seek medical attention if you were hurt, even if injuries seem minor.
- If you need legal help, consider speaking with a qualified lawyer. Our Find a Lawyer page explains the directory we are preparing.
This page is general information for people in the United States. Outside the US, use your local emergency number. It is not legal or medical advice.