Otter Tail County Encouraging Use of Smart911 to Streamline Emergency Calls and Notification

(Graphic created by Derek Sidian, KBRF News. Logos from Smart911 and OTC)

Otter Tail County, MN – Otter Tail County officials are encouraging people to sign up for Smart911.

The free service lets residents create a safety profile that automatically pops up on a dispatcher’s screen when they call 911. Information provided to first responders include household members, medical conditions, pets, and accessibility needs.

“When someone calls 911, they’re often at the worst moment of their life,” said Patrick Waletzko, Otter Tail County emergency manager. “Smart911 helps our first responders help you faster, whether it’s a fire, medical emergency or severe weather.”

Waletzko says Smart911 not only streamlines emergency calls but also sends location-based alerts by phone, text, or email when severe weather, road closures, or public safety threats arise. Your information remains private and is shared only with authorized emergency personnel when you dial 911.

Business owners and organization leaders can create detailed facility profiles through Rave Facility, Smart911’s companion service. Floor plans, utility shutoff locations, access codes, emergency contacts—when any phone in your building dials 911, responders see the full picture before they walk through the door.

Visit ottertailcounty.gov/smart911 for more information.