In an effort to enhance the existing notification system, Dinwiddie’s Division of Fire & EMS is poised to launch the FIRST CALL service. This county-to-resident notification system will allow County leaders to quickly send personalized voice messages, text messages, emails and social media notifications to residents and local businesses regarding severe weather warnings, emergency instructions and local community matters and events.
The FIRST CALL service will replace the current notification system used by Dinwiddie County.
Dennis Hale, Division Chief of Fire & EMS, stated “Citizens will now have options with regard
to how notifications from the County are received. Once enrolled in the FIRST CALL service,
citizens will be able to manage their preferences via an online portal.” Chief Hale continued “In
addition to selecting the method of notification, citizens will also be able to set preferences
regarding types of weather-related messages they receive. The FIRST CALL service also has a
call back feature that citizens can use listen to the last message sent in the event they miss the
call.”
Data from the current system will migrate to the FIRST CALL service, and County E911 data
will be loaded into the system. All citizens are encouraged to go online to set up an account and
establish preferences. Anyone wishing to receive notifications via cell phone, text message
and/or email, must create an account online. A link to the FIRST CALL service portal can be
found on the homepage of the Dinwiddie County website: www.dinwiddieva.us. Look for the
green, tab labeled “Emergency Notification System”.
Dinwiddie County will conduct a test call on Thursday, September 18, 2014. All citizens are
encouraged to confirm accounts prior to this date in order to participate in the test.
For additional information visit the Dinwiddie County website or contact the Division of Fire &
EMS at: (804) 469-5388.