Common Questions about Vine
What if I don't have a touch-tone phone?
If you are calling from a rotary phone, stay on the line and a VINE operator will assist you. Be aware that notification calls to a rotary phone cannot be stopped with a PIN.
What if I'm not at home or my phone is busy when VINE calls?
The VINE service is designed to allow every opportunity for you to be notified. A message will be left on your answering machine if a call is made while you are not at home. If there is a busy signal, the system will continue to call for up to 24 hours or until you confirm with your PIN.
Can VINE call me at more than one telephone number?
Yes, but each registration with the VINE service is unique and will require a PIN. If you want VINE to call you at more than one location, register each telephone number separately. Remember, VINE will call all registered numbers so be sure to remember your PIN. You may use the same PIN for all registrations.
What if I have Caller ID or Call Blocking?
The VINE Call Center is not located in Montana. If you have Caller ID or similar features on your phone, notifications from VINE will be displayed as out of your calling area.
Can I register my work number?
You can register any telephone number that allows incoming calls. Do not register a phone number that reaches a switchboard unless previous arrangements have been made with the switchboard operator to enter your correct PIN. Please be aware that VINE cannot place notification calls to individual extensions.
Why is my PIN so important?
Entering your correct PIN is the only way to stop a notification when an offender is released. If you have forgotten your PIN, VINE will continue to call you at all registered numbers for up to 24 hours.
What if the offender is released outside of regular business hours, for example midnight or on a Sunday?
The VINE service is active 24 hours a day, 365 days a year including holidays. Any change in offender custody will prompt the VINE service to call all registered victims regardless of the day or time.
What if the offender is transferred out of the custody of the Montana Department of Corrections but is still incarcerated?
The VINE service will notify all registered persons if an offender is transferred out of the custody of the Montana Department of Corrections. Be aware that once an offender is transferred to the custody of another institution, the VINE program will no longer monitor that offender. However, VINE will continue to monitor those offenders who are housed in contracted, out-of-state prisons, but not those transferred under Interstate Compact.
Can an offender be released without VINE notifying me?
Although the VINE service is highly reliable, like any service, it can malfunction and fail to provide you with the proper notification. You should take precautions to ensure your safety.
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