911 hang-up calls on the rise

The North Dakota Division of State radio is seeing a major spike in 911 hang-up calls this year. State Radio reports 1,600 hang-ups or misdials to date — compared to less than 450 at the same time one year ago.

Many of the miscues are related to issues that stem from changes to mobile device emergency settings.

State Radio Division Director Darin Anderson says even if you misdial stay on the phone and let dispatch know it was a mistake. Anderson says there are procedures when dealing with a hang-up that requires time and can put a significant strain on public safety resources.

Sgt. Wade Kadrmas of the North Dakota Highway Patrol says no one gets in trouble for misdialing 911…mistakes happen. He says every time a trooper is dispatched for a hang-up it takes personnel away from patrolling and providing help to those who truly need it.