By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
Barton County 911 Communications Director Dena Popp sat in on the
special session Thursday conducted by the Barton County Commissioners. As the
commission decided to add an extra day to shoot fireworks in the unincorporated
areas of the county, Popp knew the communications department would be busy
regardless of the decision.
Popp will have an extra employee staffed at the 911 call center on July 3 and July 4 as her department prepares for more calls relating to
fires, medical calls for burns and firework complaints.
"With the NextGen 911 system, I'm able to go back in the reporting system we have and do a day and time search," said Popp. "Historically, this allows me to see when the increased call times are. I try to adjust my staff accordingly."
Popp reiterated the importance calling 911 for emergencies only, such as a fire
or medical emergency, but common calls should be directed to the communications
administrative line.
"If it is a simple firework or trash complaint, please call the administrative line," said Popp. "That line does roll over, so if it's in use it will automatically roll on to the other administrative lines. Just know if it rings a couple of times, dispatchers could be on 911 calls, but we will get your call."
For non-emergencies, call 620-793-1920.