The Mad River Valley Ambulance Service (MRVAS) is in the fourth week of its transition to, and partnership with Capital Dispatch. The transition is going smoothly and requires few tweaks according to MRVAS leaders.
“The new model directly connects to the statewide 911 system, delivering modern dispatch technology that improves response times and aligns with Vermont’s public safety goals. Local dispatchers still provide essential on-the-ground knowledge when handing off from the central dispatcher after receiving handoff from Capital Dispatch,” said MRVAS’s lead dispatcher Joni Zweig.
Until this year, MRVAS has managed local EMS dispatching, a volunteer-run system rooted in community service. As Vermont’s emergency communications evolve, modernization brings higher costs but greater reliability and faster responses, Zweig explained.
CALL 911
MRVAS urges residents to call 911 for all emergencies – medical, fires, or urgent police matters. 911 provides the fastest, most reliable access to trained dispatchers who identify the problem and dispatch the closest responders. This system captures crucial details (location and emergency type) to minimize delays and confusion, whether those who need help are at home, on a mountain, or on the road.
“In an emergency, call 911 first to enter the statewide system immediately and maximize response speed and accuracy. Past local numbers will no longer be supported,” she added.
REFLECTIVE SIGNS
MRVAS is also improving nighttime and bad-weather response by making addresses easier to find. Businesses, homeowners, and short-term renters should all be aware of their street address to aid in the dispatch of emergency services. Making sure that this information is readily available to employees and short-term renters will improve response times.
The organization sells reflective green address signs to residents and businesses across Moretown, Fayston, Warren, and Waitsfield. Each sign is double-sided and available in horizontal or vertical layouts for $20. Completed signs are typically ready for pickup within a day or two at MRVAS. To confirm pickup, call the MRVAS office at 802-496-8888.
Order forms are available at town offices or online at mrvas.org under the “E911 Signs” tab. To order by mail, send the form with payment to: Mad River Valley Ambulance Service, P.O. Box 305, Waitsfield, VT 05673.
