Is it 911 or 988? How to Know Which in Great Falls

• Do you know the difference between the 911 emergency number and the 988-crisis line?
• Each number has a specific type of calls that should be directed to each number when an emergency occurs
• Great Falls Police Department will be holding a hiring event later this month for 911 responders

Is it 911 or 988?  How to Know Which in Great Falls

Most of us at an early age probably were told and learned that in an emergency, to dial 911 on your phone.  That advice still holds true, but there is also another number that should be included.

via GIPHY

Did you know that there is a specific crisis line in Great Falls for mental health emergencies or concerns?

Get our free mobile app

Why You Should Use the 988 Number for Certain Emergencies Instead of 911

While both the 911 and 988 numbers provide critical and crucial support, the two numbers focus on different types of crises.  The 988 number provides support for 3 different types of crises involving mental health issues.

READ MORE:  7 Romanian Nationals Charged with Illegal Entry in Montana

The 988 should be called in the following instances:

• Behavioral health crisis
• Crisis counseling
• Emotional de-escalation

When to Call 911 Instead for Emergencies in Great Falls and Cascade County

The 911 call center should be used for physical emergencies that would require any of the following agencies:

• Great Falls Police Department
• Great Falls Fire Rescue
• Emergency Medical Services

The Great Falls Police Department will be holding a special hiring event on May 22, 2025, for 911 dispatchers.  You can find out more about the event here.