FAQs: Transition to ACES 911

1. What is changing?

Bethel Park is transitioning emergency dispatch services to Allegheny County Emergency Services (ACES). This means that 911 calls will now be answered and dispatched through the County's centralized system.

2. When will this happen?

The transition is scheduled for July 13, 2026, at 8:00 am.

3. What about private alarm systems at businesses and residential locations?

Please contact your alarm service provider to ensure that starting on July 13,2026, all emergency notifications will be handled by Allegheny County Emergency Services via 911. Residents should advise their alarm companies to call (412) 473-3370 to notify ACES of an alarm or emergency.

4. Do I still dial 911 in an emergency?

Yes. There is no change to how you request emergency services. Always dial 911 in an emergency.

5. Who do I call for non-emergency issues?

During regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, the police department can be reached at (412) 831-6800.

6. Will police, fire, or EMS services change?

No. Bethel Park Police, Fire, and EMS will continue to respond as they do today. Only the dispatch system is changing.

7. Will response times be affected?

No. Response times are not expected to change. In many cases, improved coordination through the county system may enhance efficiency.

8. Will the dispatcher know where I am?

Yes. Allegheny County uses advanced GPS, mapping, and location technology to identify caller locations and dispatch the appropriate responders.

9. If I show up at the police station, how do I contact the police?

The Bethel Park Police Station has a red phone on the wall of the lobby that will connect you to police assistance. If you are looking for the police records and admin office, there is a separate call box in the station lobby.

10. Who do I call if I need animal control?

Call ACES 911 for any animal control needs after July 13, 2026.

11. What if I call the 833-2000 number?

Residents who inadvertently call (412) 833-2000 will be automatically forwarded to ACES 911.

12. Why is Bethel Park making this change?

This transition:

• Improves technology and reliability
• Enhances coordination with neighboring communities
• Reduces the need to maintain aging local dispatch infrastructure
• Supports long-term cost efficiency and sustainability

13. Is this common practice?

Yes. Many municipalities in Allegheny County already use the County's centralizes 911 system as part of a coordinated regional approach to emergency dispatch.

14. What happens if there's a problem during the transition?

Extensive planning, testing, and coordination are taking place to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. Municipal staff and Allegheny County will monitor the system closely.

15. What happens to Bethel Park's current dispatch operations?

The Municipality is working through a structured transition plan for dispatch operations, with a focus on continuity of service and responsible management of personnel and resources.

16. Where can I get more information?

Additional updates and information will be available on our website at www.bethelparkpa.gov and on Bethel Park's official social media channels @bethelparkpa.