When there is an emergency that requires immediate professional attention and care, the number to dial is 911. Emergencies include reporting a fire, or a car accident. Basically anything where fire, police, or medical attention is needed in order to save a life, reduce damaged property, catch a criminal, or rescue someone.

Emergencies do not include a restaurant running out of the barbecue sauce you wanted, really disliking your neighbor because they play loud music all the time, or not knowing how to unclog your toilet. There are certain times when calling 911 is and is not warranted for an incident.

In every state, including California, it is illegal to dial 911 if it is not an emergency. A person who abuses the hotline can be charged with an infraction and fined...