Wake County EMS enhances 911 response strategies for 2026

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Wake County EMS marked its 50th year with updates to 911 response methods to address growth and rising emergency care demand.

County leaders say the new approach is designed to get the right help to the right people faster and more safely as the county grows.

"One thing that will never change in Wake County is our commitment to building a safer community," Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson said. "Wake County EMS is modifying its methods to make sure the system can respond to every call in the safest and most effective way, even as our county grows and evolves."

The updated plan is built on the analysis of hundreds of thousands of 911 calls. New sorting methods will allow call takers to more precisely classify emergencies.

Under the new system, responses may include:

• An ambulance
• A fire engine paired with EMS
• A nurse advice line
• Other specialized response options

Officials said that firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and 911 telecommunicators will still work closely together and adjust response levels if situations change.

EMS Director Jon Studnek said improved call triage is essential

"Call sorting, otherwise known as 'call triaging,' is not new, but today, we have even better ways to do it," Studnek said. "Along with hiring staff and adding new resources, improved triaging helps us stay ahead of growth and provide the best possible service to everyone who needs us."

Reduced Use of Lights and Sirens

As part of the update, EMS units will use lights and sirens less often. They will still be used for lifethreatening emergencies, but research shows reducing their use when possible decreases risks for both responders and the public.

Right now, EMS does not use lights and sirens for every call. The new guidelines identify additional situations where responding without them is appropriate.

Wake County EMS will host seven community meetings to explain the changes and answer questions. Several of them can be attended virtually.

Meeting Schedule

• Wednesday, Feb. 25, 7 p.m. - Wake County Emergency Services Education Center, 221 S. Rogers Lane, Raleigh (Virtual available)
• Tuesday, March 3, 11 a.m. - Wake County Emergency Services Education Center, 221 S. Rogers Lane, Raleigh (Virtual available)
• Tuesday, March 3, 7 p.m. - Morrisville Town Hall, 100 Town Hall Drive, Morrisville
• Monday, March 9, 7 p.m. - Wake County Northern Regional Center, 350 E. Holding Ave., Wake Forest (Virtual available)
• Wednesday, March 11, 1 p.m. - Bond Park Community Center, 150 Metro Park Drive, Cary
• Wednesday, March 11, 7 p.m. - Beech Bluff County Park, 3321 NC 42, Willow Spring (Virtual available)
• Thursday, March 12, 7 p.m. - Wendell Falls Public Safety Station, 6021 Taylor Road, Wendell