North Mason fire starts Resource Access Program

The North Mason Regional Fire Authority wants residents to know about a new program that might reduce the strain on the 911 system. According to fire district Executive Assistant Renee Wassenaar, data suggest 1% of the population generates about 20% of emergency medical calls and that "chronic" 911 use is often an indication of "a health or social vulnerability."

"Frequent users typically suffer from combinations of chronic medical diseases, psychiatric disorders, drug and alcohol dependence, and in-home challenges," Wassenaar stated. "These individuals often call 911 because they need support...