Boone County Joint Communications reminds residents when to call 9-1-1 vs. 3-1-1

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Boone County Joint Communications is preparing for an increase in calls over the holiday weekend.

Residents are reminded to call the non-emergency numbers 3-1-1 or 573-442- 6131 for non-emergencies requiring law enforcement attention, such as noise caused by fireworks or fireworks being discharged in prohibited areas.

Officials say that calling 9-1-1 when there is no emergency can prevent actual emergency calls from being connected in a timely manner and could delay emergency responders for someone who really needs help.

When to call 9-1-1 versus 3-1-1:

• Call 9-1-1 for any situation requiring the immediate presence of law enforcement or a response from fire/rescue or ambulance services.
  • A burglary in progress
  • A house fire
  • A person trapped by machinery
  • A person having chest pain
• Call 3-1-1 or 573-442-6131 for law enforcement assistance when immediate presence of law enforcement is not required.
  • To report an abandoned vehicle
  • To report a noise complaint
  • To report lost or stolen property
  • To report a parking issue