The Hawaiʻi County fire and emergency medical services 911 system will be combined with the county police dispatch system effective immediately due to staffing shortages, the Hawaiʻi Fire Department announced.
The critical change in the emergency services dispatch system is a temporary move designed to ensure the most effective and efficient service possible for residents.
“We understand that you may have concerns regarding this change, but rest assured that we are taking this matter very seriously,” Hawaiʻi Fire Chief Kazuo Todd said in a statement. “We are actively working on long-term solutions to address staffing challenges and are committed to returning to separate dispatch systems as soon as it becomes feasible.”
The temporary merger could minimally disrupt regular services, though significant interruptions are not expected. Fire officials will continue to monitor the temporary merger and will make adjustments as necessary to ensure the health and safety of the public, according to a county press release.
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Residents with additional questions or concerns can contact the Hawaiʻi Fire Department at 808-932-2900.
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