When you dial 911, your call is routed to a Public Safety Answering Point, or PSAP. These are the physical locations where trained dispatchers receive emergency calls and coordinate the response. In Michigan, there are more than 100 PSAPs serving the state’s 83 counties.
The structure of PSAPs varies significantly across the state. Some large counties operate multiple PSAPs, while smaller counties may have a single center. The Michigan State Police PSAP directory provides the complete list, including director names, addresses, and contact numbers.
Each PSAP is governed by local authorities — typically a county 911 authority board. The Saginaw County 911 Communications Authority is one example of this governance structure. These boards oversee budgets, staffing decisions, and technology investments.
PSAPs don’t operate in isolation. They work closely with local emergency planning committees — the Saginaw County LEPC shows how 911 directors collaborate with fire, police, and public health officials. They also depend on GIS authorities for the mapping data that enables accurate location identification.
At the state level, PSAPs are regulated through the State 911 Committee, which ensures compliance with training standards, funding requirements, and operational best practices. The annual reports to the Legislature document how well this system functions.
For more on how Michigan’s 911 system operates, Chris Izworski offers a practitioner’s perspective through his writing on emergency services technology and operations.
PSAP Resources: Access the Michigan PSAP Directory. Read the Annual Report to the Legislature and see Chamber listing.
AI in Public Safety — Chris Izworski 