9-1-1 is the most recognized phone number in America. These three numbers link callers in Central Oklahoma to fire and police protection and emergency medical services. With skilled call-takers using continually advancing network and computer technology, 9-1-1 can help responders get to you when you need them the most.
ACOG was instrumental in developing and implementing the enhanced 9-1-1 emergency telephone number and system in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. System financing was provided by a vote of the area’s citizens in the spring of 1987, followed by the system coming “on-line” May 1, 1989.
The highly advanced system incorporates regional sites where calls are answered, and covers a wide area of communities and counties and an Air Force base in the Central Oklahoma region. The 9-1-1 Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (9-1-1 ACOG), an operational arm of ACOG, was formed to implement and manage the system for suburban communities. In addition, a 9-1-1 Technical Committee involving representatives of the public safety agencies in the system was created to facilitate exchange of information, concerns and improvements in the system’s efficiency.
In 1994, ACOG established the 9-1-1 ACOG Call-Taker Institute to offer Central Oklahoma emergency call-takers a top quality, affordable and nationally accredited alternative to expensive out-of-state training. The Institute, relies upon the expertise of local call-takers who are certified to train others in basic telecommunications. ACOG also monitors phone company activity in the region and offers assistance with rural addressing.
In 2005, a regional movement was enacted to address the system's capacity to receive calls from mobile phones with the number and location information necessary to dispatch emergency services. A regional election was held in December 2005, and voters in all counties in Central Oklahoma voted yes for approval of a monthly service fee to finance the system. Since then, the system has been built out and awaits future developments as technology evolves.
