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The History of 9-1-1 The concept of 9-1-1 was born in the late 1930's in Great Britain, where the telephone number 9-9-9 was used to summon Police, Fire and Medical Services. During World War II, the efficiency of this system was recognized by American military personnel stationed in England.  As American military personnel returned home after the war, many entered civilian life as police officers and fire fighters and they brought with them the concept of a universal three digit telephone number to summon help in an emergency.In 1957, the National Association of Fire Chiefs, now the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), formally recommended that a universal emergency telephone number be established in the United States for requesting Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Service.Since 1968 all telephone companies in the United States have provided the number 9-1-1 to any community in the country desiring to establish a 9-1-1 emergency telephone reporting system. Approximately 75% of United States cities and towns, representing approximately 35% or the geographical United States, have 9-1-1 systems.9-1-1 service first came to Texas in April of 1970 at the Odessa Police Department. The City of Plano began Enhanced 9-1-1 service in 1987 and today 99% of the State of Texas has 9-1-1 service. Red E. Fox Red E. Fox is a nationally recognized program designed to target children age 3 to 7 years old. This program focuses on teaching children the difference between an emergency situation and a non-emergency situation. In addition, our instructors show children how to call 9-1-1 and when calling 9-1-1 is appropriate. The instructors for “Red E. Fox” are the City of Plano’s actual 9-1-1 personnel. These experienced men and women also emphasize to children the significance of knowing their address and telephone number as well as the proper way to describe situations to 9-1-1 calltakers. This one hour program consists of an 18 minute video, speaker presentation, use of a 9-1-1 simulator and age-appropriate ‘take-home’ materials. 9-1-1 & You 9-1-1 & You is a more in-depth program designed to teach children from 8 to 11 years old, how the 9-1-1 system functions. Program instructors for “9-1-1 & You” are the City of Plano’s 9-1-1 personnel who will also concentrate on why prank 9-1-1 calls are dangerous, staying calm in an emergency situation, 9-1-1 cellular phone usage and other important information. This one-hour program consists of a seven minute video, speaker presentation, use of a 9-1-1 simulator and age-appropriate materials.  9-1-1 Center Tours Tours of Plano's state-of-the-art Dispatch Center, can be scheduled for groups of any size. These guided tours will give insight into the operations and importance of the Public Safety Communications department. Special Events Public Safety Communications personnel are ready and able to staff booths, display educational materials, and/or use our 9-1-1 Simulator at community events such as block parties, safety and health fairs, children’s events, or other similar events. Speaking Engagements Public Safety Communications personnel are available to speak to community groups of any size. Some topics for presentation include “When to Call 9-1-1”, “Cellular Phones and 9-1-1” and “What All 9-1-1 Operators Want to Know”, just to name a few. At least one week’s notice is appreciated prior to the date of any presentation. If you have questions or comments, or would like more information on any of our educational programs, please contact our Public Education Specialist: Susan Rodriguez (972) 941-7943