News
Athens County 9-1-1 Director Urges Preparation for Natural Disasters
By: Gabe Ross
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With the possibility of a derecho and other severe weather, the Director of Athens County’s 9-1-1 Emergency Communications Department is reminding residents to only call their offices to report an emergency.
Dan Pfeiffer told WOUB News that no extra precautions were needed for his office in lieu of the storms expected to impact the region Wednesday and Thursday.
During last year’s storm, 9-1-1 call centers around the region were swamped with calls. Many of them according to Pfeiffer were for non-emergencies.
“All it does is tie up the emergency communications systems,” Pfeiffer said.
Those needing information on power outages or utilities should call their local utility company.
Despite the influx of calls, Pfeiffer said those in need of emergency service saw no delays in receiving aid.
The newly-appointed 9-1-1 director also encourages residents to make preparations in case of power outages or medical emergencies caused by a natural disaster.
“It’s a good time to plan ahead, you’re best to plan ahead than to wait for an emergency to strike and not be prepared,” Pfeiffer added.
For More information on how to prepare for an Emergency, you can visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s disaster preparedness website, at www.ready.gov.