Since 1997, Airdrie's 9-1-1 service has been provided by the City of Calgary Public Safety Communication Centre - but that's about to change.

The City recently signed a new contract with the City of Red Deer to have their 9-1-1 Emergency Communications Centre provide emergency call centre service to Airdrie. The City of Red Deer was the successful bidder to provide these services after an extensive bid process. One of the reasons they won the bid is because their software is directly compatible with the Airdrie Fire Department's records management system. This compatibility means fewer mistakes and a more stream-lined and cost effective process.

Residents shouldn't notice any changes to accessing emergency assistance, according to assistant fire chief, Linda Masson. The City of Red Deer service currently dispatches for 64 communities within Alberta. The Airdrie Fire Department will become their largest client outside of Red Deer itself.

The new contract takes effect on November 16.