This week, we highlight the Plano 9-1-1 call center challenges. The Public Safety Communications Department (PSC) is responsible for all 9-1-1 and non-emergency Police/Fire/Emergency Medical Service calls made within the 71.6 mile radius that make up the City of Plano. Join us as we Explore Plano this week with the 9-1-1 call center’s challenges below:
CHALLENGE 1: KNOW WHAT TO DO IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY
As parents, we eagerly equip our children with as much knowledge and preparation for the future as possible. However, sometimes we don’t educate them as often as we should on what to do in the event of an emergency. Part of understanding what is an emergency is knowing what isn’t an emergency. The Cell Phone Sally video is a great tool that teaches children what to do and who to call in an emergency situation. Once you and your child have watched the video, take some time and talk about it. You can even walk through a plan to ensure your child knows where the phones are located and how to place calls on them. Making sure a phone is within reach is also important. Who knows, your child might just end up saving your life one of these days.
CHALLENGE 2: PRACTICE CALLING 9-1-1
Practice calling 9-1-1 after watching the Cell Phone Sally video with your child. As they say, “practice makes perfect” but it’s difficult to practice when there aren’t any emergencies. Luckily TAGn Solutions has created the Teach 911 app which is available to download at the Apple Store. Similar apps should be also available through the Android and the Google Play store. Download the app and let your child practice what they’ve learned from the Cell Phone Sally video.
CHALLENGE 3: TEST YOUR SKILLS BY TAKING THE 9-1-1 QUIZ
Show off what you’ve learned by taking the 9-1-1 Quiz after you’ve completed challenges #1 and #2. The short five-question quiz will test your knowledge and know-how. Once you’ve completed the test, you’re now equipped with the knowledge needed to help in the event of an emergency. Share photos of you or your child completing each challenge on social media with hashtag #exploreplano. Just as the old iconic G.I. Joe cartoons used to say: “Now you know and knowing is half the battle.”
If you would like to learn more about the Public Safety Communications Department, visit plano.gov/psc. Check back next week as we highlight the Neighborhood Services Department challenges. They include solving an issue on your block and welcoming someone to your neighborhood. As always, share your progress with us on social media with hashtag #exploreplano.