New Study Reveals 911 Call Frequency Variation by State

With the increase in gun violence in the United States, social settings remind us that danger could be everywhere. It’s important to keep your wits about you, pay attention to your surroundings, and be prepared for an emergency situation if one arises. While we never hope to be in a situation where we need to rely on 911, it’s comforting to know they’re here to help.

A recent study from Assurance IQ has highlighted significant disparities in the frequency of contacting emergency services across the United States. In 2021, New Jersey residents made an average of one 911 call per person, while Washington, D.C. exceeded this figure with an average of two 911 calls per person. These variations underscore the varying demands for emergency services nationwide.

Despite its high rate of 911 calls, Washington, D.C. has one of the lowest ratios of Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) to residents. This low ratio can strain resources and potentially impact emergency response times, presenting a challenge for the region. In Texas, a concerning situation exists where less than one-fourth of the state’s PSAPs provide Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) services, potentially limiting immediate medical assistance during emergencies.

The study also revealed differences in communication methods. New Mexico led in wireline calls, considered the most reliable means of contacting 911 due to their fixed location nature. In contrast, Washington, D.C. relied heavily on wireless calls, emphasizing the importance of well-equipped 911 centers for handling mobile calls. Texas stood out for its use of text-based emergency communication, a valuable option for those with speech or hearing impairments.

In summary, the study highlights the need for improved emergency response services and the importance of residents familiarizing themselves with local emergency contact protocols. It underscores the diverse needs and challenges faced by emergency services in different states and the importance of adaptation to ensure effective responses to emergencies.