SHERIFF’S OFFICE REMINDS PUBLIC OF IMPORTANCE OF 9-1-1 EDUCATION

GRAND COUNTY, CO – The Grand County Sheriff’s Office reminds the public of the importance of 9-1-1 education and how the efficient use of it aids emergency response in times of crisis. The public should call 9-1-1 for immediate medical, fire or police emergencies.

Call If You Can, Text If You Can't: The service benefits individuals (or persons) who are deaf, hard of hearing or in a situation where they cannot speak and make a voice call. However, a traditional voice call, if possible, is still the best way to reach emergency services.

Know Your Location: Wireless calls to 9-1-1 provide location information, but 9-1-1 Dispatchers may need more specific information. Be prepared to provide detailed information on where you are so that help can get to you as quickly as possible.

Stay Calm and Don't Hang Up: Stay on the line so you can provide any necessary information or assistance to the 9-1-1 Dispatcher. Even if you accidentally call 9-1-1, do not hang up. Inform the Dispatcher that you dialed accidentally and that there is no emergency.

Waiting for First Responders: Follow any instructions the 9-1-1 Dispatcher gives you while waiting for first responders to arrive. If it is nighttime, turn on the lights to help make it easier for responders to find your location.

Sheriff Brett Schroetlin emphasized, "You don't wake up in the morning thinking you are going to call 9-1-1. However, should you have to, it may be the most important call you ever make. In an emergency, seconds matter; being knowledgeable and prepared can make all the difference."

Grand County’s non-emergency phone number for Dispatch (970) 725-3311 is a good contact to have saved in your phone. Always call 911 if you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency.

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Erin Opsahl

Communications Director

Grand County Sheriff’s Office

670 Spring Street / PO Box 48

Hot Sulphur Springs, CO 80451

970-725-3844 (Office)

970-725-3227 (Fax)

eopsahl@co.grand.co.us

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