Emergencies can happen anytime. If you live in Houston, knowing about emergency services in Houston can save lives. Let’s explore what to do and who to call if you need help fast.
What Emergency Services Are Available in Houston?
Houston has many emergency services ready to help. These include fire departments, police, ambulance, and hospitals. You can reach them quickly by dialing 911. The city’s top goal is to keep everyone safe.
Houston Fire Department has more than 4,000 firefighters and over 90 fire stations. This means help is always close by. Houston Police Department has more than 5,000 officers around the city, ready to respond 24/7. Houston Emergency Medical Services (EMS) helps during accidents or when someone is very sick.
Other important groups include poison control, animal control, and emergency shelters. The city even provides help during hurricanes and floods.
Houston was hit by Hurricane Harvey in 2017. In only five days, some neighborhoods got more than 50 inches of rain. Emergency workers saved more than 12,000 people from flooded homes. Over 20,000 people stayed in shelters set up by officials. These numbers show how strong and important Houston’s emergency services are.
Who Should You Call When There Is an Emergency?
If you have a true emergency, always call 911 first. The 911 team sends police, fire, or EMS in seconds. They ask questions to know which help you need. Don’t worry if you are scared or upset; they are trained to help you stay calm.
If your problem is not urgent but still needs help, you can call the city’s non-emergency number: 713-884-3131. This number is for lost pets, noise complaints, or other non-urgent problems.
How Fast Do Emergency Services Arrive in Houston?
Houston emergency teams are quick. On average, fire and ambulance crews get to homes in about 6–8 minutes. Police usually arrive at emergencies in under 10 minutes. This speed can make a big difference, especially in life-or-death situations.
For instance, quick fire department response keeps fires from spreading. Fast ambulance arrivals mean sick people get to the hospital sooner. In 2022, Houston EMS responded to over 350,000 emergency calls. Their fast help saves thousands of lives every year.
What Should You Do During Different Emergencies?
Fire
If there is a fire, get out of the house right away. Call 911 once you are safe. If possible, crawl under smoke. Stay low and follow your exit plan.
Crime
If you see a crime or are in danger, call 911. Give your address and a short description of what is happening. Stay on the line until the operator tells you to hang up.
Medical Emergency
For medical problems like heart attacks, allergic reactions, or major injuries, call 911. Try to explain what is wrong as clearly as you can. Follow any advice given by the 911 operator.
Natural Disasters
Houston gets hurricanes, floods, and sometimes tornadoes. Listen to weather reports and alerts. If told to leave, do so quickly. Know where the nearest shelter is in your neighborhood. After Hurricane Harvey, Houston built better warning systems and more shelters. Every year, thousands practice drills to be ready.
How Can You Prepare Before an Emergency?
You can help yourself and your family by getting ready. Here are some steps:
- Learn your full address and phone number.
- Teach children how to call 911.
- Keep a first-aid kit and fire extinguisher at home.
- Make an emergency plan with your family.
- Learn where the nearest hospitals and fire stations are.
Houston’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) holds “Prepare Houston” events each year. Kids and adults learn what to do in fires, floods, and storms. Over 8,000 families joined these programs in 2023.
Special Emergency Services in Houston
Houston understands that everyone is different and has different needs.
Language Help
Over 145 languages are spoken in Houston. 911 operators get special training and have translators ready. No matter what language you speak, you can get help.
Help for Disabled People
Police and firefighters in Houston are trained to help people with disabilities. They know how to use special equipment. There are texting options for 911 if you cannot talk on the phone.
Pet and Animal Rescues
The Houston SPCA and BARC Animal Shelter help rescue pets in disasters. During Hurricane Harvey, more than 2,300 pets were saved by these groups.
Real Stories: Emergency Services Saving Lives
Let’s look at a few examples.
After a big flood, EMS saved two kids trapped in a school bus. Firefighters pulled an elderly woman from a burning house just in time. Police officers reunited a lost child with her parents at a busy stadium.
Everyday heroes work all over Houston. In 2021, Houston’s 911 center got 1.6 million calls. Each one could mean a life saved.
What About Emergency Services During Big Events?
Houston is home to large events and festivals. The city plans ahead with special safety teams. At the Houston Livestock Show, officials set up first-aid tents and extra patrols. Over 2 million people attend this event every year. Fast emergency help is always close by.
Staying Updated and Getting Emergency Alerts
Houston uses AlertHouston, a free text and email alert system. More than 300,000 residents got important messages during the last hurricane season. You can sign up online or through the city’s website.
Action Steps for Every Houston Resident
- Save 911 and other important numbers on your phone.
- Make a simple emergency plan with your family or friends.
- Sign up for emergency alerts at houstonemergency.org.
Houston’s emergency services are always ready to help. Being prepared can help you and your loved ones stay safe. Start today – your safety is worth it!