Boone County News Release


Press Archives Press Room

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:
Stirling Williams, Operations Manager
Boone County Joint Communications
Phone: (573) 554-1003


Residents Reminded When to Call 9-1-1

COLUMBIA, Mo. (July 3, 2024) –Boone County Joint Communications is prepared for a spike in calls on the Fourth of July holiday.

Residents are reminded to call 9-1-1 for emergencies only and to call the non-emergency numbers 3-1-1 or 573-442-6131 for other situations requiring law enforcement attention, such as noise caused by fireworks or fireworks being discharged in prohibited areas.

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
  • If you are not sure whether something is an emergency, dial 9-1-1 to report the incident.

To learn more about 3-1-1 and other helpful services and resources, please visit www.showmeboone.com/bcjc/311/.

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