Authorities explore single dispatch system

Persons requiring emergency medical assistance could soon be able to call one number to access police, fire, and ambulance services.

That’s because Government is exploring the possibility of having a unified dispatch system for its emergency services to avoid confusion about which number people should call at critical times.

This was disclosed by Minister of Home Affairs and Information Wilfred Abrahams, following a tour of the Bridgetown, Worthing, and Airport Fire Stations on Tuesday.

He was joined by Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry Curtis Gilkes, Chief Fire Officer Errol Maynard, and other officials.
Abrahams noted that many people did not know the individual emergency numbers for the fire, police, and ambulance services, and having a unified system would simplify the process for all.

In addition, he said, it would also release trained emergency personnel to return to active duty.

“Right now, our system has trained fire officers, police officers, and trained ambulance service people answering the phone to do dispatch.

That is pretty much a waste of manpower,” Abrahams contended, adding that Government was therefore seeking to harmonise operations to get the best out of the system and make the process more effective.

Maynard welcomed the likely introduction of a 911 system, noting that it would allow members of the public to call a common number to reach first responders when they are in need of assistance.

He also thanked fire officers for their continued service during challenging times over the last two years of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the tour, Minister Abrahams listened to the concerns of fire officers and outlined measures that could address them, and received a general overview of the state of preparedness of the Barbados Fire Service.
(BT/BGIS)