Emergency Dispatch Center Opens
Escambia County opens its Emergency Dispatch Center at the corner of “L” Street and Fairfield Drive. Eight dispatchers handle fire and medical emergency calls using seven-digit telephone numbers.
More than five decades of emergency communications service to the citizens and first responders of Escambia County.
In early November 1973, Escambia County opened the Emergency Dispatch Center in the former road prison located at the corner of “L” Street and Fairfield Drive.
Eight emergency dispatchers, with two working each shift, received calls for fire and medical emergencies. Because 911 had not yet been established locally, citizens called seven-digit telephone numbers when they needed emergency assistance.
Ambulance service was provided by the privately operated Northwest Florida Ambulance Service, and the county’s fire departments were staffed by volunteers.
Key moments in the development of Escambia County’s emergency communications system.
Escambia County opens its Emergency Dispatch Center at the corner of “L” Street and Fairfield Drive. Eight dispatchers handle fire and medical emergency calls using seven-digit telephone numbers.
Escambia County receives its first 911 call in January 1979. By this time, the Emergency Communications Center has moved to the basement of the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office.
The original 911 system did not automatically provide information about the caller.
The system is upgraded to Enhanced 911, allowing dispatchers to receive the telephone number and address associated with the calling number.
Emergency calls are dispatched using a Motorola radio console with a Plectron encoder.
In January 2005, the Emergency Communications Center moves to the Public Safety building on North “W” Street.
The building brings several public-safety functions together in one facility:
January 1, 2014, marked the 40th anniversary of Escambia County Emergency Communications.
The center and the emergency communications profession experienced substantial changes during those four decades, including advanced training, professional licensing, certifications and modern communications technology.
Today’s telecommunicators receive extensive preparation for their critical public-safety responsibilities.
Emergency Communications dispatchers undergo rigorous training, are licensed by the Florida Department of Health and maintain professional emergency communications certifications.
Modern systems support emergency call-taking, dispatching, mapping and coordination with field responders.
Motorola P-25 digital and conventional radio system.
Vesta 4.0 emergency call-handling system.
EnRoute CAD with integrated mapping.
Automatic Vehicle Location for EMS and Fire response units.
Integrated mobile data technology for EMS and Fire responders.
Public-safety call analysis software.
The mission of Escambia County government is to provide efficient, responsive services that enhance our quality of life, meet common needs and promote a safe and healthy community.
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