911 dispatch partners with Wilmington and NHC fire departments

Wilmington and New Hanover County fire departments have partnered with 911dispatch to cut down on response times. The departments now share the same dispatch system, whereas in the past they each had a separate channel.

The new system allows 911 operators to issue a pre-alert to responding fire departments. Previously, operators were forced to complete phone calls before they alerted firefighters.

“It’s going to cut down their response time, we hope 30 seconds, if not greater,” said 911 communications manager Debora Cottle.

Both dispatchers and firefighters will now be aware of incidents throughout the county. If necessary, the new system will also help dispatch both city and county firefighters to recently annexed areas like Monkey Junction and River Road.