From the Department of Public Safety Joint Communications:
With thousands expected to converge on Columbia this weekend for the annual Roots ‘N Blues and Barbecue Festival, the Columbia/ Boone County Department of Public Safety Joint Communications (PSJC) reminds those who may need 911 services that they can assist our operators in dispatching critical services in a timely fashion.
“With the magnitude of the crowd anticipated in the downtown area on Friday and Saturday, we expect to receive a high number of calls for emergency services,” says acting interim PSJC Director Donna Hargis. “Just as we always ask those who call 911, we are requesting that those who must call from the festival to make themselves aware of their surroundings, and know the location from where they are calling. We also ask that callers remain calm, speak clearly, follow the operator’s directions, explain the incident, and stay on the line until the dispatcher tells you to hang up. That can help the victim get the assistance he or she needs in a timely manner.”
Those attending the Roots ‘N Blues and Barbecue Festival and associated activities such as the half-marathon are reminded that 911 should be called for public safety and life-threatening situations. For non-emergency situations, you are encouraged to call the non-emergency number at the Operations Center (573-442-6131), the non-emergency line for the Columbia Police Department (573-874-7652), or find one of the many officers and security personnel who will be working in the downtown area during the two-day event.
