Durango, CO: Sports enthusiasts who wear smart watches are asked to double-check their settings to avoid unnecessary 911 calls mistakenly made after they wipe out.
The Durango-La Plata Emergency Center is seeing an increase of approximately 25% in 911 misdials, hang-ups and open lines since the start of the winter sports season. The ability to dial 911 is a feature offered by Apple iOS and Android smartphones and some wearable devices such as smartwatches, which have an optional feature that will call 911 if the wearer has fallen.
"While this is a beneficial feature, it also can cause an increase in unnecessary calls to 911 centers, particularly when enjoying winter recreational sports," said Zeta Fail, director of the emergency center. "This can result in delays for actual emergencies."
To help avoid these delays consumers are urged to learn how automated emergency features work on their smartphones and wearable devices, including how to adjust the settings to enjoy the added safety and security without causing unnecessary 911 calls. If your device has notified 911, please stay on the line so dispatchers can confirm whether there is an actual emergency.
For additional information call (970) 375-4621.
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Media Contact
Tom Sluis
Director, Media and Community Engagement
Phone: (970) 375-5090
Email: Tom.Sluis@durangogov.org
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