|
The police in New York City (and in the USA in general) are well trained, honest, helpful and enjoy the respect of most of the population. In addition, there are special departments within the police department such as the Mounted Police (on horses) for crowd control, police helicopters, K-9 units with dogs, etc. There are uniformed police (blue) and "plain-clothes" non-uniform police detectives as well as "undercover" police who dress or act so as to blend in with a group of people. There are special police for the subway system (Transit Police) and for public housing developments (Housing Police). Parking regulations and traffic are often carried out by unarmed Traffic Wardens.
|
The famous 911 number
For fire, crime or life-threatening emergency, you should
dial 911 free on any phone
When you call 911, you will get an trained dispatcher who will ask you to describe the type and location of the emergency so he/she can dispatch the police, an ambulance and/or fire fighters - whatever is needed. You should know the address if possible of where you are calling from - this will help the dispatcher to send the closest possible unit to help you.
TYPTip: Only dial 911 in the event of a real emergency- to stop a crime or save a life or report a fire.
|
Contacting the police for non-emergencies. For non-emergencies, call or visit the nearest police precinct. Most are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The New York City Police Department (NYPD) is divided into "precincts" which are responsible for a specific geographical area. Following is a list of the New York City police precincts in each of the five boroughs (listed by borough):
Other Law Enforcement Agencies.
While each city, county or incorporated town may have its own police force, there are several other important law enforcement agencies in NYC.
See GOVERNMENT - Branches of National in Local City ,
CUSTOMS,
and CITY GOVENMENT.
Police Department
One Police Plaza 374-5000
Internet www.ci.nyc.ny.us/nypd
|
