[2/23/01]

To enhance the public safety of residents and business people in the area, the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce met with Johnston County Sheriff Steve Bizzell to discuss issues facing the growing I-40 corridor area of Cleveland Springs and McGee's Crossroads.

Sheriff Bizzell reported that four deputies now patrol a four-mile square area of the unincorporated portion of western Johnston County and show a response time of four minutes to emergency calls.

"The Sheriff noted that his department is very sensitive to some Johnston County 911 calls being routed through Wake County because the phone service comes from BellSouth," said Deirdre Jersey, president of the GCCC.  According to Jersey, the Board of Directors also met with Jason Barbour, Director of 911 Services for Johnston County.  Barbour told the group that there have been many changes worked out with BellSouth to ensure that Johnston County residential and business emergency calls are directed to Smithfield.

 

Johnston County recently upgraded the call-in computer system which pops up the phone bill recipient's name, the location (address) and phone number of the caller on the operator's screen.  While operators help callers on line with instructions for what to do to help in a medical emergency, another operator dispatches emergency personnel - police, fire or emergency medical technicians based on the caller's stated needs.

"We're encouraging all of our members and western Johnston County residents, particularly those serviced by BellSouth to check their 911 services by calling in and stating that it is a non-emergency call.  If they reach Johnston County, then thank them and hang up. If it's Wake County, residents and businesses need to call their telephone company business office and ask them to direct their 911 call to Johnston County 911.  If you persist in having difficulty getting it changed, call (919) 989-5412 and ask for assistance," said Jersey. 

The GCCC and Sheriff's Department will look at additional ways to educate the public about safety issues including the option of starting Neighborhood Watch programs.  Jersey said that residents should watch their newspapers about programs to be offered this spring.