Palm Springs Police Remind Residents Which Number to Call This Fourth of July

Palm Springs police are asking residents to think before they dial this Fourth of July, as the city's holiday crowds swell for America's 250th birthday celebration.

Officials say 911 should be reserved for true emergencies, like crimes in progress, fires, serious crashes or medical emergencies. Anything less urgent, including noise complaints, past crimes or suspicious activity that isn't happening right now, should go to the department's non-emergency line at 760-327-1441.

Police say the reasoning is simple. Keeping 911 open helps dispatchers get to life-threatening emergencies faster, without the line getting tied up by calls that could wait.

With more people out celebrating the holiday, officers are urging the community to help keep response times quick by using the right number for the situation.