RICHLAND, Wash.-A new phone tree system for all non-emergency dispatch calls in Benton and Franklin Counties will go live on Thursday, Dec. 14.
Southeast Communications Center (SECOMM) is launching the phone tree for its non-emergency number of 509-628-0333 to streamline communication processes and speed up service, according to a City of Richland press release.
“Because we are the answering point for all law enforcement and fire agencies, we receive a lot of calls because we’re the first place people start,” said Communications Manager Aimee Fournier-Plante. “We’re hopeful that the phone tree will help those calling get to the people that can help them quickly, without potentially waiting on hold with one of our call receivers.”
Starting Dec. 14 when someone calls non-emergency dispatch instead of waiting for a call receiver callers will hear a pre-recorded message in both English and Spanish, with instructions to follow.
According to the City of Richland’s press release, SECOMM receives over 15,000 non-emergency calls a month and the phone tree system will help handle the volume and ensure callers are promptly connected to the appropriate resources.
