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Reach Out To 911

Pioneering Emergency Response Education 

The Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH) has introduced the Reach Out to 911 education initiative, a groundbreaking program inspired by interactions with the public at the 2023 Erie County Fair. Erie County schools, businesses and community groups are encouraged to engage with this training program. By participating, you contribute to a safer and more prepared community, ready to act effectively in emergencies.  

Understanding When and How to Dial 911 

The Reach Out to 911 program educates the public on when and how to call 9-1-1. Instructors present proper emergency response protocols, enhancing community preparedness and reducing anxiety associated with emergency calls. It also guides people on when to call 911 versus using other services like 211 (for basic needs), 988 (for people experiencing thoughts of suicide or a mental health crisis) or 1-800-222-1222 (for the Upstate New York Poison Center), helping to prevent misuse of 9-1-1 in non-emergency situations. 

Advanced Training Tools 

Participants experience a comprehensive setup featuring the 911 simulator where you can text or call 911, and a live demonstration of the Prepared Live system. This innovative approach allows dispatchers to assess situations through live video calls, improving their response capabilities, especially in medical emergencies.  

Prepared Live

911 Simulator

Custom Presentations 

Our program offers customized presentations tailored to groups such as:  

  • Children under 5 years old 
  • School-aged children (elementary) 
  • School-aged children (middle school and high school) 
  • Older adults  
  • Individuals with developmental disabilities and their families 
  • General public 
  • Businesses and nonprofit organizations 

The presentations last between 45 and 60 minutes and include a mix of video demonstrations, interactive simulations, and discussions designed to build community resilience and preparedness.  

This ensures that people in Erie County, regardless of age or ability, have access to the knowledge to know when and how to use 9-1-1 in life-threatening situations.   

Request a Reach Out to 911 presentation here or call 716-431-3774.  

Contact

Reach Out to 911 
45 Elm St
Buffalo, NY 14203  
716-431-3774 
ReachOutTo911@erie.gov 

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