Call 911 when there is an emergency:

• lives are in danger and immediate action is required
• such as a burning building or vehicle
• serious injury or medical condition (i.e.; a heart attack)
• or a crime is in progress, such as:
• a shooting
• stabbing
• armed robbery
• or to report suspicious persons, vehicles or circumstances, threats of violence or injury, disturbances or actions which, if not controlled quickly, could lead to an emergency.

For non emergencies call 660-679-3232. Using the non-emergency number helps keep the 911 lines available for persons reporting emergencies.

STAY CALM! It's important to take a deep breath and not get excited. Any situation that requires 911 is, by definition, an emergency. The dispatcher knows that and will try to move things along quickly, but under control.

Know the location of the emergency and the number you are calling from. This may be asked and answered a couple of times but don't get frustrated. The phone number you are calling from and exact directions are essential! Learn and know your county road number and the nearest crossroad. Give a detailed description of your home/property. (Keep these directions/details posted near every phone in your home) If for some reason you are disconnected, at least emergency crews will know where to go and how to call you back.

As the call progresses, you may hear clicking - do not hang up!

Let the dispatcher guide the conversation. Answer the dispatchers questions calmly and clearly so that they can provide the information needed to help emergency services respond as quickly as possible. He or she is typing the information into a computer and it may seem to be taking forever. It is likely, however, that emergency services are already being sent while you are still on the line.

Follow all instructions. In some cases, the dispatcher will give you instructions. Listen carefully, follow each step exactly, and ask for clarification if you don't understand.

Be alert and keep your eyes open. You may be asked to describe victims, suspects, vehicles, or other parts of the scene.
Do not hang up until directed to do so by the dispatcher.