Vail 911 Emergency Center

Vail's 911 emergency system makes an important difference in the community.

Dialing 911 is the fastest, easiest way to communicate with local fire, police and medical services during an emergency.  The center is set up to receive and handle text-to-911 messages.  Text-to-911 is not meant to replace regular dialing of 9-1-1 in an emergency.  It provides an extra level of contact when someone in an emergency may be safer not speaking.  It also is beneficial to those who are speaking or hearing impaired.

As a 911 dispatcher there are a few things needed from you the caller:

• You need to stay CALM. It's easier to obtain vital information if you are calm and listening to the questions asked.
• Where are you?
• What is your phone number?
• What is the problem?

The more information you are able to give dispatchers, the better they will be able to serve you. Always hang up last. Make sure the dispatcher has all the needed information.

911 TIPS:

• Do not program 911 into your speed dial. Speed dial calls can malfunction and invite accidental dialing of the number.
• It's a good idea to have your home address and phone number displayed on all your phones. This can help young children and visitors to give accurate information in the case of an emergency.
• If you dialed 911 in error, do not hang up, stay on the line and explain to the dispatcher that you dialed 911 by mistake. If you hang up and do not answer your phone upon call back, a police officer will be sent to your home.
• Call 970-479-2200 for all non-emergency needs.

The Vail Communications Center, located in the Vail Police Department, began dispatching for Eagle County in 1998. The center now dispatches for every emergency service in the county with the exception of the Colorado State Patrol, which is dispatched out of Montrose.

For more information on Vail Public Safety Communication Center please visit our site at www.vail911.com.