GWINNETT 911 CENTER IMPLEMENTS FIRE PRIORITY DISPATCH SYSTEM

(Lawrenceville, Ga., July 28, 2026) – Callers contacting 911 for fire emergencies in Gwinnett may notice dispatchers asking a new series of questions.

The Gwinnett 911 Center recently launched the Fire Priority Dispatch System, which equips 911 communications officers with a standardized, researched-based set of questions tailored to fire emergencies.

“It’s important to know that the new line of questioning will not delay response times,” said 911 Communications Director Michelle Miller. “As soon as the dispatcher has identified the location and main issue, emergency crews are routed. Further questions may be asked to assess the exact severity of an emergency, provide the right instructions and ensure the proper resources are being sent.”

Gwinnett’s 911 communications officers have undergone specialized training to earn certification in the Fire Protocols of the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch, which powers the new system. The training covers a variety of incidents, including aircraft emergencies, structure collapses, elevator incidents and wildfires.

“Our goal is to help the emergency dispatcher do his or her job better,” said Dr. Jeff Clawson, Founder and Chair, Rules Committee for the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch Medical Council of Standards. “This system increases safety and effectiveness for the first responders and creates better outcomes for callers.”

The update builds on the Gwinnett 911 Center’s existing emergency medical dispatch system, further streamlining consistency in the County’s emergency response and standard of care. The center maintains an average hold time of three seconds this year, compared to four seconds in 2025.