Big Idea

• Cellular networks have been changing technologies
• Cellular 3G is becoming obsolete
• Some cell phone dialers may not call 911 in an emergency
• Are you prepared for the change?
• Read more…

Preparation for the 3G 2022 phase out is critical

Recently cellular networks have been changing technologies.  As the old technology becomes obsolete, and new technologies and systems are introduced, oftentimes the systems connected to the cellular networks need to be upgraded.  Recently the cellular telephone carriers have announced that cellular 3G is becoming obsolete.   Because of this, fire alarm panels that use the cellular network to report fires to the fire department may not work.  

Prescott area fire protection companies have been working hard to replaced obsolete cellular telephone dialers, the device in the panel which notifies the fire department of fires, with upgraded dialers that will work on the new cellular systems.  

If you are a business owner that has a monitored fire alarm system installed in your business, please check with your fire protection company to see if your panel needs an upgraded cellular dialer. If you are a homeowner with a monitored fire alarm system in your home, contact the monitoring company that services your home and inquire if your phone dialer needs to be upgraded.    

We also ask residents to check their cell phones and other items such as medical alert devices to see if they will continue run once the 3G service is no longer available. This can be done by contacting your cell phone service provider or emergency monitoring company. 

If your monitored fire alarm panel fails to report a fire alarm signal to your home or business or you are unable to contact 911 via telephone or medical alert device, Prescott Fire Department may be delayed in responding to your emergency. This could result in greater damage due to fire, injury or even loss of life.