Winfield Fire/EMS has seen an increase in automated crash calls from mobile devices. While these alerts can be life-saving in a true emergency, we’re also seeing a rise in accidental calls-often triggered when phones are dropped, left on the roof of a vehicle, or tossed around during routine driving.
These false alarms can tie up emergency resources and delay response for those in real need.
A few ways you can help reduce accidental crash alerts:
Secure your phone before driving-avoid placing it loosely on the dash, seat, or roof.
Use a phone mount to keep it stable if you’re using navigation or music apps.
Familiarize yourself with your phone’s emergency settings so you know how crash detection works.
Dismiss the alert if it’s not a true emergency-most phones give you a short countdown window before calling 911.
If your phone does call 911 and you can’t stop it, stay on the line-let the dispatcher know you are safe and there is no emergency.