When Should Your Sober Living Home Call 911? The Answer is Complicated

The question seems simple: When should you call 911? But for sober living home operators, the answer requires careful consideration of multiple factors, including the safety of your residents and the potential consequences of police involvement.

When 911 is Absolutely Appropriate

Let’s be clear from the start: genuine medical emergencies absolutely warrant calling 911. Heart attacks, respiratory distress, unresponsiveness, severe injuries, and overdoses require immediate professional intervention.

Don’t hesitate when lives are at stake. Emergency medical services exist precisely for these situations.

The Complications

Here’s where it gets nuanced. 911 calls can easily bring a police presence to situations that might not warrant law enforcement involvement. What starts as a welfare check can escalate into something far more serious.

For non-medical crises, like mental health episodes, interpersonal conflicts, or minor disturbances, police response can sometimes make situations worse rather than better.

Racial Justice Considerations

BIPOC communities experience disproportionate risks during police encounters. Research consistently shows African Americans face heightened danger during police interactions and higher arrest rates in comparable situations.

As a sober living operator, you have a responsibility to consider how your emergency response decisions impact your most vulnerable residents. This isn’t about politics; it’s about protecting the people in your care.

Developing Community Alternatives

Rather than defaulting to 911, research local resources that might provide better alternatives for certain situations:

• Mental health crisis response teams: Many communities now have trained professionals who respond to mental health emergencies without police involvement
• Conflict resolution services: Community mediation organizations can help de-escalate disputes
• Peer support networks: Recovery community organizations often have crisis support available
• Faith-based support services: Local religious organizations may offer crisis intervention

Creating Clear Emergency Protocols

Management should document emergency protocols that specify situations that do NOT require 911, such as:

• Non-acute suicidal ideation (when immediate danger isn’t present)
• Noise complaints from neighbors
• Petty resident disputes pending internal investigation
• Issues already in your internal conflict resolution process
• Minor rule violations

For each situation type, document the appropriate response: who to contact, what steps to take, and when escalation to 911 becomes necessary.

Training Your Staff

Protocols only work if staff understand them. Regular training should cover:

• Recognizing genuine emergencies versus situations that can be handled differently
• De-escalation techniques for tense situations
• How to access community alternatives
• Documentation requirements for all incidents

The Bottom Line

Thoughtful emergency planning that incorporates trauma-informed approaches and community alternatives promotes both resident safety and equity. The goal isn’t to avoid 911 entirely; it’s to ensure that when you do call, it’s the right decision for that specific situation.

Take time this week to review your emergency protocols. Are they serving all your residents well?