Hugh Hefner's Alive Despite Death Scare

Law enforcement rushed to the Playboy Mansion Friday ... when rumors swirled Hugh Hefner may have died.

Several news agencies, including TMZ, got a tip the Playboy king had passed away. We called law enforcement to confirm or shoot down the story ... and we were told they were unaware of a death at the Mansion.

We've learned earlier today, cops went to the bunny house and spoke with staff members who said Hef's health remained unchanged. A staff member told Hef the police had come to check on him and he then personally called cops to say he was okay.