9-1-1 Programs Recognize the Importance of 9-1-1 during 9-1-1 Education Month

During the month of April, various 9-1-1 entities are busy working to provide knowledge to the public on the use of 9-1-1 in honor of 9-1-1 Public Education Month. From creating public service announcements to making appearances in school classrooms, public educators are aiming to educate the general public about the importance and appropriate use of 9-1-1 services.

Below, we have compiled various efforts across the nation. Every effort made this month makes a huge difference in the public’s perception and knowledge of 9-1-1, which is why 9-1-1 Public Education Month is so crucial to our society.

Joliet, Illinois: Will County 9-1-1 is urging all educational organizations to assist with the 9-1-1 Education Challenge. The Will County 9-1-1 System will be providing educational materials for organizations to utilize during the month of April.

Houston, Texas: Greater Harris County 9-1-1 Emergency Network will be airing a public education message in movie theaters throughout Brazos, Galveston, Fort Bend, Harris, and Montgomery Counties. The message, titled “Help 9-1-1 Help You”, will remind 9-1-1 callers to give your location, stay on the line and answer all questions. Greater Harris partnered with Brazos County 9-1-1 District, Galveston County 9-1-1 District and Montgomery County 9-1-1 District to create this public awareness campaign.

Corpus Christi, Texas: The City of Corpus Christi will be airing some public service announcements on TV and radio about 9-1-1 awareness. During the week of National Telecommunicators Week, they will have the mayor read a declaration recognizing this week.

Montpelier, Vermont: The State of Vermont’s Enhanced 9-1-1 Program will be rolling out public service announcements on local radio stations designed to raise public awareness about the Do’s and Don’ts of effectively using 9-1-1.

Washington, D.C.: The Office of Unified Communications will provide education materials to all organizations and age groups promoting their 2013 campaign message which is “9-1-1 wants you to KNOW”. The OUC is also encouraging youth and parents to register their mobile number to their home address with the Smart911 program, so that responders can quickly notify parents in the event of an emergency.

Charlotte, North Carolina: Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Communications Center will be going to daycares in the area to teach children when to dial 9-1-1 and what questions will be asked of them on the call. They will also be attending neighborhood watch meetings to speak with adults about the importance of 9-1-1.

These are just a few efforts going on around the country to get the message out regarding 9-1-1 services. If you know of efforts or if you are providing efforts in your area, please share them with us! We would love to include them in our blog. Send information to melinda.crockom@csec.texas.gov. A big thank you to public educators for all that you do!