The Essential Three-Digit Phone Guide For People In Western New York

We all know from the time we were little that when there’s an emergency, we should call 9-1-1 (Some people even use it for things they really shouldn’t!). But what number do we call when we need help and it’s NOT an emergency? Do you know what these three-digit numbers can do for you?

They call them N11 Service codes. They’ve been assigned by the FCC, and they’re there to help you do everything from settling neighbor disputes to helping with your DIY projects. What’s the difference between all of these numbers and how can you use them to your benefit?

The Cheat Sheet: N11 Service Codes

• 2-1-1 | Community & Referral Services Think of this as your gateway to social services. If you or someone you know needs help with mental health support, veterans' resources, childcare, legal aid, or substance abuse treatment, dial 2-1-1. They are the "connectors" who find the right experts for your specific situation.
• 3-1-1 | Buffalo’s Call & Resolution Center This is for non-emergency city services. Use this to report a massive pothole, a stray animal, or a neighborhood noise complaint. You can also use it to register a formal complaint or access government information without tying up emergency police lines.
• 4-1-1 | Local Directory Assistance It feels a bit "old school" in the age of Google, but 4-1-1 is still there if you’re ever without data or a smartphone. If you need a business phone number and can’t get online, this is your backup.
• 5-1-1 | Traffic, Travel, and Weather Heading out for a commute on the 190 or the 33? Dialing 5-1-1 gives you real-time updates on accidents, construction, and weather-related road closures before you get stuck in the middle of them.
• 6-1-1 | Wireless Customer Care If your cell service is acting up or you need to reach your carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.) quickly, just dial 6-1-1 directly from your mobile device to skip the long search for their 1-800 number.
• 7-1-1 | New York Relay Service This is a critical resource that allows people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-disabled to communicate effortlessly over the phone with hearing individuals.
• 8-1-1 | "Call Before You Dig" Doing some landscaping or putting in a new fence? Always call 8-1-1 first. They will send someone out to mark underground utility lines, pipes, and cables so you don't accidentally knock out the neighborhood's power (or worse) with a shovel.
• 9-1-1 | Emergency Services The one we all know. Use this strictly for life-threatening emergencies, crimes in progress, or immediate medical needs.
• 9-8-8 | Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Available 24/7, this is a dedicated line for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm. It provides free, confidential support and immediate crisis resources.