In a medical emergency, when every second counts, an emergency medical technician (EMT) does not have to be the first professional to arrive on the scene. A specially trained dispatcher answering an emergency call can “be there” instantly, providing medical information and critical instructions via telephone and making the most of vital minutes until emergency personnel arrive.

Township trustees have decided to enhance emergency medical services to township residents.by switching to a system known as Priority Emergency Medical Dispatching, or Priority Dispatching. The township has entered into a five-year agreement with the city of Huber Heights for police, fire and emergency medical dispatch services.

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about the new service:

Why is Butler Township switching to a new type of dispatch service?
The primary reason is because the new system, Priority Dispatching, has the greatest potential to save lives. This is because assistance in dealing with a medical emergency can begin immediately after the call is received – even before emergency medical personnel arrive on the scene. Specially trained and certified dispatchers answer the phones, and by asking the right questions, are able to provide callers with life-saving instructions if needed.

What can I expect if I call with a medical emergency?
You will call 911 just as you always have. The Priority Dispatcher will ask questions to determine the nature of the emergency. Based on the information you provide, the dispatcher will refer to established medical protocols and convey the specific steps you need to take until emergency personnel arrive.

What kind of training have the dispatchers received?
Each of the Priority Dispatchers working for the city of Huber Heights has completed 32 hours of initial training and met rigorous quality assurance standards derived from the Council on Medical Services of the American Medical Association. Every two years, they must complete 24 additional hours and be recertified. In addition to learning to guide callers through the early minutes of a medical emergency, Priority Dispatchers have been trained to use interpersonal and crisis management skills to communicate with panic-stricken or hysterical callers. One hallmark of Priority Dispatch programs is stringent quality-assurance measures and ongoing reviews that ensure the proper handling of emergency calls.

Will it cause a delay in response if Butler Township calls go first to Huber Heights?
No. Due to the sophistication of today’s communication technology, this is not an issue. Currently all of the township’s 911 calls are answered by the Montgomery County Regional Communication Center, which was recently relocated from downtown Dayton to Miamisburg. Once the Butler Township switch is completed, all the township’s 911 calls will be answered by the Huber Heights Communication Center. Huber Heights has installed the proper equipment, made the needed programming modifications and trained its personnel to provide seamless service to Butler Township residents.

Whom should I call if I have additional questions?
Fire/EMS-related questions should be directed to Chief Robert Weiffenbach at (937) 890-2491.
Police-related questions should be directed to Chief Danny Hobbs at (937) 890-2671.
Remember…
FOR ALL EMERGENCIES
call 911
FOR NON-EMERGENCY DISPATCH,
call 233-2080