Greattionger: Who you going to call in emergency?

n the event of an emergency or crisis, the questions often asked, “Should I call 9-1-1 or the Sun City Posse?”

It can be confusing and often scary. But the answer is simple. In the event of an emergency call 9-1-1 because it takes you directly to an operator who dispatches for the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office as well as local fire and emergency services. In addition, the MCSO has a non-emergency number, 602-876-1011, with coverage 24 hours per day, 365 days per year; while 623-972-2555 routes you to the Sun City Posse dispatch unit, our local community service group. Although we are the additional eyes and ears for the MCSO, we basically handle non-emergency situations.

To help resolve some of the confusion, let me offer some tips.

If you see something that appears to be suspicious or if there is a medical emergency, it is imperative you call 9-1-1. Be prepared to describe what is going on and the people involved; but most importantly, keep yourself safe. Report if you see any weapons. If you can safely do it, take a picture and provide information as to your location — the address, street name and any landmarks where the emergency is taking place.

Provide the dispatcher with your name and phone number, but remember you can choose to remain anonymous. Stay on the line so the operator can ask questions; remain calm. Take time to listen to the 9-1-1 operator and speak clearly. A final tip, if you inadvertently dial 9-1-1, do not hang up; wait for the operator and explain to them you called by mistake.

So, when do you call the Posse?

Simple, in the event of any non-emergency occurrences, the Posse stands ready to help. Here are some possible scenarios — the situation in your neighborhood is different from the norm, something is out of place with you or your neighbor’s property or someone needs non-medical assistance. We are a multifaceted organization serving all of Sun City. In addition, we have the resources to guide you in the right direction for the services you might need for all non-emergency incidents.

For future reference, here is a check list of things that we do — welfare checks, vacation watches, dispatch center, patrol, traffic assistance, Neighborhood Watch, community programs such as the Shred-A-Thon and Drug Take Back.

So, check us out. I invite you to visit our headquarters at 10861 W. Sunland Drive or our satellite office at 10415 W. Grand Avenue to learn more about the Posse, or call 623-972-2555 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday.

We also need volunteers. That is why the Posse has been so successful, because of people like you who donate their time and talents to either serve as a patrol person or as a member of our support staff.

We’d like to invite our readers to submit their civil comments, pro or con, on this issue. Email AZOpinions@iniusa.org.