A wellness check is a request for law enforcement or emergency services to visit an individual who is in distress or unable to care for themselves. This procedure is part of the police’s community caretaking function, focusing on public safety and well-being. The purpose is to ensure the safety of a person when a concerned party has been unable to make contact. These checks are important interventions, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly or those in a mental health crisis.
The Primary Number to Contact
The decision of which number to call depends on the perceived urgency of the situation. If there is an immediate threat to the person’s life, such as a medical emergency, assault in progress, or active suicide attempt, call 911. The emergency line is appropriate when a delay could result in serious harm or death.
For situations that are serious but not immediately life-threatening, use the local police department’s non-emergency line. This line is suitable for reporting a prolonged lack of contact or a worrying deviation from a person’s normal routine. It is advisable to find and save the non-emergency number beforehand, as calling 911 for a non-urgent matter ties up resources needed for true emergencies. If you are unsure, most dispatchers can redirect your call appropriately.
Criteria for Initiating a Wellness Check
A request for a wellness check is warranted when an individual exhibits a cessation of communication. For instance, if a loved one who calls daily has not been heard from for an extended period, a check may be justified. Another common scenario involves failure to show up for scheduled appointments, such as a medical check-up or work shift, without prior notification.
Concern is also raised when a person with a known history of mental health struggles begins acting suspiciously or deviates from their regular plans. This includes receiving disturbing messages or social media posts followed by a sudden silence. Neighbors may initiate a check if they observe visible signs of neglect, such as uncollected mail, newspapers piling up, or an unusually unkempt home environment. Observation suggesting domestic violence or suspicious activity near the person’s residence also provides grounds to request intervention.
Information Needed When Making the Call
When contacting the dispatcher, you should be prepared to provide precise details to facilitate the response. The exact address, the person’s full legal name, and a physical description are necessary. You must clearly articulate the nature of your concern and specify the date and time of your last successful contact.
Dispatchers need to understand why the person is unreachable and what specific circumstances prompted your call. Providing information about any known medical conditions, particularly those that impair mobility or communication, is helpful for the responding officers. It is also important to disclose any potential risks on the property, such as aggressive pets or known weapons, to ensure officer safety.
The Outcome and Limitations of the Check
When officers arrive at the location, they first attempt to make direct verbal contact by knocking on the door. They will visually assess the immediate area for any signs of distress, such as forced entry, broken windows, or accumulating mail. If they cannot make contact, officers may speak with neighbors or contact the requester to gather more information.
Authorities cannot force entry into a private residence without a warrant due to constitutional protections. An exception is made under the “community caretaking” doctrine if officers have an objectively reasonable belief that the person requires urgent aid or is in immediate danger.
If officers confirm the person is safe, they will document the visit and depart, sometimes relaying the outcome to the caller. If an individual is found to be injured or in a mental health crisis, personnel will arrange for medical transport or mental health evaluation.