The purpose of the meeting was to assess the Y2K readiness of the public safety sector and to increase communication among sector participants. However, there is uncertainty about the level of preparedness and contingency planning being done locally. Communities should develop an inventory of volunteer personnel. If needed in one role, the individual will not be available to serve in other capacities. Communities should consider establishing relationships with neighboring jurisdictions to provide for back-up in the event of unanticipated system failures or overloads.
Databases containing public safety points of contact from surrounding jurisdictions can be helpful.
Regional Y2K plans can also help communities to coordinate date rollover activities. Communities should develop protocols for prioritizing emergencies through contingency planning and table-top exercises. Communities should consider public education campaigns to inform citizens about the appropriate use of available emergency and information lines. Local information lines, such as 311 in Dallas, for non-emergency calls can reduce the likelihood for overburdening 911 systems. Community leaders in business and government should participate in public forums for discussing the state of community Y2K readiness with citizens.