Washington County sheriff receives a grant to update 9-1-1 dispatch system

A grant awarded to the Washington County sheriff’s office will give funds to update the 9-1-1 dispatchers’ office and help first responders receive proper information to help those in need, said Washington County Sheriff Matt Thomas. The grant was allotted through the Idaho Public Safety Communications Commission (IPSCC) and regards the usage of the 9-1-1 emergency call.
 The grant has been awarded to both Washington and Payette County. In Washington County, it will allow a total update of all systems in the dispatchers’ office.
 Both counties opted into an Idaho program that opened the opportunity to apply for the grant. .25 cents from every phone bill is allocated to a fund, where the grant is then accessed from. Only counties that have opted into the program are able to apply.
 Updated equipment will enhance dispatchers’ ability to send information to first responders, as well as allowing proper information to be gathered.
 Emergency dispatchers are trained to  receive accurate and detailed information to provide to emergency services. Information provided will allow first responders to help make educated decisions about how to respond to a situation and what equipment to bring, according to the press release.
 “This will benefit the community as a whole,” said Thomas.
 Individuals who call 9-1-1 are asked to remain calm and answer all questions thoroughly. Individuals who accidentally dial are asked to remain on the line to confirm there is no danger. If individuals hang up, they will be called back by dispatchers.
 Phones that are no longer in use are still able to dial 9-1-1 and must have the battery removed to disable. Even in Washington County, Thomas said there have been situations of children playing with phones no longer in use and accidentally calling emergency services.
 Emergency phone calls are important to understand and can be lifesaving to make. If a person is unsure if their situation is considered an emergency, always call.