Montgomery County officials just launched a public safety outreach initiative aimed at encouraging non-English speaking residents to call 911 in case of an emergency. The new campaign comes after a recent analysis from the county’s 911 Center found that overall usage of the Language Line — th e county’s contracted translation service — decreased significantly in 2025 compared to 2024. According to officials, Language Line calls, 83% of which use a Spanish translator, declined most during the months of June, July, November, and December 2025.  “In Montgomery County, public safety means safety for everyone. We are committed to ensuring that every resident feels informed, supported, and empowered to call 9-1-1 without fear,” said Jamila H. Winder, Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners. “This initiative is about clarity, reassurance, and making sure people know when you call 9-1-1, help is there for you, no matter who you are.”  The county said in 2025, overall usage of Language Line was down 12.4% compared to 2024, with a specific decrease in Spanish-language calls, down 13.9%. Both these decreases outpaced a 7.3% drop in total 911 calls over the same period. Officials said a possible explanation for this drop in 911 usage among non-English speakers could be the increased immigration enforcement that has been reported in the county. “When our neighbors are afraid to call the police to report robbery or assault because of their immigration status, we are all less safe. When people are afraid to receive lifesaving or life-sustaining services or healthcare because they are afraid that they will be asked a question that will result in their families being separated, we are all less well off,” said Neil K. Makhija, Montgomery County Commissioner. In response, the Montgomery County’s Office of Immigrant Affairs has decided to address this downward trend, by using social media to disseminate educational flyers in popular languages, including Chinese, Spanish, Russian, and Korean, among others; videos encouraging 911 usage; and key facts and figures to help residents understand how the county’s emergency services operate. Officials said the outreach initiative will continue with regular meetings with first responders, the District Attorney’s Office, the Sheriff’s Office, municipal law enforcement partners, and community advocates. According to data, the county is home to nearly 100,000 immigrants. ...read more read less