The Moose Jaw Fire Department announced changes Friday that see all fire calls to 911 that originate in Moose Jaw answered in Prince Albert and dispatched from the province-wide 911 dispatch centre located in the northern Saskatchewan city.
Regina and Saskatoon are now the only centres in the province that won't use PA911, the Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) for 911 calls.
"Nothing changes (for) the general public," explained Moose Jaw Fire Chief Rod Montgomery, who says we'll still "call 911 for an emergency. The only difference now is instead of having to wait for that (911) call to be transferred to the Moose Jaw Fire Department, they'll be able to automatically dispatch the (fire) trucks from there (PSAP), so there'll be a bit of time saving."
Montgomery added that the PSAP offers technology that enhances safety. "In the (PSAP) they have the ability to (receive) texts to 911, improved services for the hearing impaired and disabled."
In addition, PSAP offers computer-aided dispatch that will provide firefighters with GPS routes, updated road closures, and other pertinent information when they respond to calls.
The changes do mean job losses for those working as Fire Department dispatchers in Moose Jaw, though one new person will be hired in an administrative position at the North Hill Fire Hall.
"This person will be charged with not only assisting with administration, but also answering inquiries from the public," said Chief Montgomery.
