History, page 2

Since the inception of MECC dispatching, we have continued to grow and improve both our procedures and our technology.  After our original launch with computerized dispatch software from Emergitech, we added custom mapping. With this advantage, a 911 call not only arrives with address information for the caller, but the location is immediately mapped.

Since then, we have also obtained additional grants to install mobile computers in our fire and EMS apparatus. Now, we not only dispatch the emergency but our personnel can see exactly what the dispatchers see, and read notes and other details which prepare them to provide the right service on arrival at the scene. Maps not only show the location of a call, but the nearest hydrants and other pertinent information.

We have expanded our responsibilities as well. In 2005, we began taking requests from all over the state of Ohio for after-hours fire investigators for various incidents.

We have also begun serving as one of three dispatch centers for a cooperative effort by the Ohio Fire Chiefs Association called the Ohio Emergency Response Plan. This plan provides large responses of manpower and apparatus for short and long-term emergencies. This response may be called to provide 30 boat teams, or rescue companies, or even hazardous materials experts for a local department trying to handle a major emergency.

The Next Step

With another Federal grant, the MECC was moved to its new home- the prestigious Creekside development in Gahanna, OH. This center for residential and commercial activity is a new focal point. The MECC is located in the office complex, with seven total dispatch positions, extensive technical improvements and a new more modern telephony system.