Ohio 9-1-1 Program Office
The Ohio 9-1-1 Program Office coordinates and facilitates communication concerning 9-1-1 issues among state, federal, regional and local 9-1-1 and public safety communications officials. Specifically, the office coordinates all Emergency Services Internet Protocol Network (ESINet) Steering Committee activities to facilitate Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG 9-1-1) state level efforts within the scope of wireless 9-1-1. The implementation of NG 9-1-1 will provide citizens with advanced communication capabilities when calling for emergency services, including police, fire and emergency medical services. Additionally, through use of the ESINet, NG 9-1-1 will become a seamless, coordinated and efficient system available to all local 9-1-1 centers throughout Ohio.
ESINet
An Emergency Services Internet Protocol Network (ESINet) is a network capable of connecting calls, texts and other forms of media from the public to 9-1-1 Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). The state will offer a statewide ESINet available for connection to local PSAPs.
Public Safety Answering Points
The operations of Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) is governed by Ohio law and the Ohio 9-1-1 Program Office has oversight of certain operations, including regulating operational procedures and minimum training standards.
Recent legislation (HB 166) added language to Ohio Revised Code 128.021(A) directing the adoption of rules establishing technical and operational standards for public safety answering points eligible to receive disbursements under section 128.55 of the ORC that incorporate industry standards and best practices for wireless 9-1-1 services. PSAPs must comply with the standards and may be deemed compliant with the rules for minimum staffing standards if it an demonstrate compliance with all other operational standards. This change is taken into consideration during all support and compliance reviews. If a county meets all other operational standards in the PSAP Operation Rules (OAC 5507-1:1-19), but does not meet the minimum staffing rule, the review will result in an “In-Compliance” determination in line with the new ORC language.
Although the ORC change ensures counties in the circumstance will not lose Wireless 9-1-1 Government Assistance Fund disbursements, PSAP operations rules, which also serve as best practices, still contain minimum staffing language and it is recommended that counties attempt to meet the standard for public safety.
9-1-1 distribution amounts are available through the Ohio Department of Taxation.
County 9-1-1 Coordinators
County 9-1-1 coordinators can contact the 9-1-1 Program Office with any changes to this map.