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The Metropolitan Police Department, as well as the Henderson and North Las Vegas police departments and the UNLV Police, recently have implemented the 3-1-1 non-emergency police assistance line.

Boulder City Police have a similar non-emergency service, which can be reached by calling 293-9224.

WHEN TO CALL 9-1-1

* If you see fire.

* If you see or hear an explosion.

* If you see someone who needs or if you need medical assistance.

* If you witness a suspicious person leaving a secured area.

* If you witness someone who is detained or taken against his or her will.

* If you become aware of or see a life-threatening or property-damaging situation.

WHEN TO CALL 3-1-1

* If you hear someone planning a crime.

* If you hear someone make a verbal threat about a future act.

* If you hear someone bragging about a crime he or she has already committed.

* If you receive a suspicious letter or package.

* If you are aware of a past or future threat to life or property.

When calling law enforcement using one of these numbers, you will need to answer several questions.

Be prepared with the answers to these questions:

* What is the address where the incident occurred, and is this place your house, apartment or business?

* What address are you calling from?

* What is your name?

* What is your phone number?

* When did the incident occur?

* Can you describe the suspect, if necessary? Be sure to observe the suspect's race, sex, age, height, weight, hair, glasses, clothing and anything else that could be helpful.

* Was the suspect on foot or bike or in a vehicle, cab or other mode of transportation?

* Did the suspect have a weapon, and, if so, what type?

* Where was the suspect when you spotted him or her and which direction was he or she going?

Children should know how to call 9-1-1, but don't actually call the service when practicing with your child.