By Rich Larson
Northfield Fire and Rescue Service Chief Tom Nelson is reminding residents that accurate information can make all the difference when reporting a possible fire or emergency.
Speaking after recent dispatcher appreciation efforts at the Rice and Steele Consolidated Dispatch Center, Nelson emphasized the critical role callers play as the first link in the emergency response chain.
“Everyone has a cell phone now, and that comes with both rights and responsibilities,” Nelson said. “If you’re the one making the call, you’re essentially the first responder.”
Nelson explained that dispatchers rely heavily on the details provided by callers to determine what resources to send and how urgently to respond. However, incomplete or unclear information can delay or misdirect emergency crews.
A common issue occurs when drivers report smoke or flames but continue traveling, giving dispatchers inaccurate location data. “By the time the call connects, the map shows where the caller is—not where the fire is,” Nelson said. “Then we’re working with a lot of ‘I don’t know’ answers.”
He encouraged residents to safely gather as much information as possible before calling, such as the exact location, size of the fire, and any visible structures or people involved. While he cautioned against putting oneself in danger, he noted that even small details can significantly improve response efforts.
Nelson also warned against exaggerating situations. In one recent case, a reported “garage explosion” turned out to be a bonfire. The call triggered a large emergency response that ultimately wasn’t needed.
“Good information helps everyone—dispatch, responders, and the public,” Nelson said. “Sometimes bad information can be worse than no information at all.”
He added that with the increase in controlled burns in rural areas, accurate reporting is especially important to avoid unnecessary emergency deployments.
Ultimately, Nelson said, informed and thoughtful callers help ensure emergency resources are used efficiently and effectively.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
