How Technology is Improving the Efficiency and Accuracy of Information During 911 Calls

How Technology is Improving the Efficiency and Accuracy of Information During 911 Calls

When we dial 911, we expect that emergency services will respond and provide quick assistance. Sometimes a delay in providing prompt details can make a difference between life and death. Thus, the accuracy and efficiency of 911 calls are critical. But, what if I told you that technology has been making significant strides in improving the speed and reliability of emergency response? In this article, we explore how technology is improving the efficiency and accuracy of information during 911 calls.

Streamlined Call Routing

In the past, a call would have gone through multiple call centers before it reaches the appropriate emergency services department, causing delays, and could even lead to an incorrect department being reached. However, with the help of modern technology, calls can now be directly routed to the right center. GPS technology is also being introduced to ensure call routing is optimized based on the caller’s location. This functionality not only shortens response times but also ensures that the right type of help is dispatched.

Instant Access to Vital Information

On average, dispatchers ask almost 200 questions to identify the type of emergency and dispatch the right resources. Technology now helps in the process by instantly providing the emergency operator with the caller’s location, medical history, and other critical information. For instance, if a person has a severe allergy, this information will instantly be relayed to the operator, making medical treatment more tailored and specific.

Other useful information such as building blueprints, security feeds, locations of gas and electric shutoffs, and hazardous material material safety data sheets (MSDS) can now be made readily available to first responders via technology. The ability to access this information could improve response times and limit injury or damage.

Audio and Video Enhancements

One of the biggest headaches for call responders is when they get calls from non-verbal callers. In instances where the caller is incapacitated, can’t speak, or their phone line is disconnected prematurely, dispatchers find themselves making decisions without all the information they need. To address this issue, we now have smarter 911 technology solutions that incorporate real-time text, instant pre-recorded messages, and video.

The video technology can help responders establish situational awareness instantly. For instance, a video from a witness or victim sent to emergency services could help them identify potential suspects and take appropriate action. However, video technology usage comes with the potential risk of overloading dispatchers with information, leading to confusion or missteps. False alarms are also a likelihood – so right equipment and technologies must be put in place to identify and mitigate this occurrence.

Summing Up

Technology has come a long way in improving the safety of our communities, and the advancement in 911 services is not in any way left behind. By cutting down delays, improving information accuracy, and streamlining emergency services, technology will play a critical role in real-time response efforts. To maximize the potential of these new technologies, communities should invest in upgrades and training workers to adapt to new technologies and develop best practices.

In conclusion, with the increased use of technology, we can expect a continued improvement of 911 services. As more communities continue investing in emergency technologies and updating their 911 systems, we can hope for more accurate and efficient delivery of emergency services. Ultimately, the combination of technology and effective management of emergency services personnel, infrastructure, and protocols have the potential to save lives.