Cellphones can be used for 911 calls
Wireless service providers have improved support for emergency needs

A recent article discouraged the public from using their cellphones to dial 911. In the article, the journalist stated that 911 calls from cellphones, for now, "will still go through the Highway Patrol." This is not an accurate statement.

According to the Ventura County Sheriff's Department, while the majority of wireless 911 calls may go to the California Highway Patrol, there are many wireless 911 calls that are selectively routed directly to the appropriate Public Safety Answering Point, or 911 center, bypassing the CHP entirely.

Calling 911 from a cellphone may actually reduce the response time of law enforcement, fire or emergency medical services, especially in those cases where the wireless 911 call is selectively routed to the appropriate PSAP.

Additionally, in Ventura County, many PSAPs have upgraded their equipment so the 911 call-takers may be able to view the caller's location. This is especially important for tourist destinations, such as Oxnard and Ventura, where people may not be familiar with their surroundings.

The PSAP managers in Ventura County have been working closely with the State 911 Office, the CHP and the various wireless service providers for several years to enhance the efficiency of the 911 system by identifying cell sectors that are best suited to selectively route wireless 911 calls directly to the appropriate PSAP.

Whenever a new wireless service provider enters Ventura County or an existing service adds cell sites, the PSAP managers review coverage maps to determine which agency should receive the wireless 911 calls from each cell sector. This has resulted in increased efficiencies and, in many cases, has reduced 911 call processing and response times.

The 911 community is focused on providing outstanding service to people who need law enforcement, fire or emergency medical services. As part of this goal, PSAP managers meet on a regular basis to review and refine policies and procedures, while also discussing emerging technologies. The many technological advances that are enjoyed by most consumers are also the same technologies that prompt PSAP managers to constantly revisit service delivery methods.

The 911 number is a valuable tool and the public should use it whenever they need assistance from law enforcement, fire or emergency medical services.