Rapid response saves lives - a closer look at E911 in Bates County

Many years ago a large bell was rung to summon firefighters to the station to ready a steam powered pumping rig, which was a timely process. In many cases, locating a reliable water source near the scene was a major challenge. Often, the fire resulted in a total loss of the structure despite the best efforts of firemen.


Much has changed since then- bells have been replaced with a dispatcher; hoses put water on the fire with pinpoint accuracy; streamlined fire trucks get to the scene quickly;  hand held radios allow information to be passed quickly.


But bear in mind, fires aren't the only thing that needs a fast response. Medical emergencies such as a stroke, require the fastest response humanly possible due to lifesaving drugs that need to be administered asap. Yes, medical helicopters greatly save time, as do a greater number  of paramedics and EMT's available in Bates County to respond. 



So, you ask, with all this in mind, how could we possibly do any better? The answer lies in available technology we aren't using yet. 

E911 or Enhanced 911 is that technology. And Bates County is one of a few of the 114 counties in the state who do not have it in place. Currently when a 911 call is placed it is routed to the dispatcher at the Bates County Sheriff's Department. Depending on the location and type of call, the dispatcher then must contact the appropriate parties for response. For example, the Bates County Ambulance, a local fire department and in some cases a police officer- all of which are calls made separately. 


Once the appropriate emergency services are in route, they are solely responsible for finding the location, which in some cases can be tough, especially at night. Plus, if they are not aware of temporary road closures, an alternative route must be found.


Cell phone 911 calls complicate things even more. Many 911 cell calls, especially in the northern part of the county, get routed through dispatch in Harrisonville which adds even more time to the equation.


For contrast, lets look how it would be if an E911 system was in place:


A 911 call goes directly to a dedicated dispatcher using the system who can pinpoint the location of the emergency using GPS technology. The exact location goes to the responding parties including information such as road closures, detours, etc. There's no extra phone calls. No finding the best route or hunting for a house in the dark. The information is instantly available and alas, much time saved.


There's no question E911 would be of great benefit to everyone in Bates County. The question we've been hearing is how will it be paid for? By a tax?


The answer is by using money already available and no additional tax. According to Sheriff Chad Anderson, advocate of the Bring E911 to Bates County cause, money is already available to do the project- there is simply much work to be done to bring it to fruition. 


Bates County Live will continually provide updates on the Bates County E911 program as we will are planning an upcoming segment including an interview with Sheriff Anderson and others working on this project. 


You can show your support by attending future meetings and by joining the E911 Facebook cause here.