NG911 Multimedia Sharing: Bringing Emergency Response into the Digital Age - NGA
Posted in All, NGA911 on Dec 13, 2021
NG911 Multimedia Sharing: Bringing Emergency Response into the Digital Age
The sending and receiving of multimedia information through the web or any number of smart devices is taken for granted by many people until they face an emergency. As the demand for faster and more accurate emergency response increases, 911 systems must continue to adapt and evolve to accurately and effectively answer the call. With the implementation of NG9-1-1 comes innovative features such as NG911 multimedia sharing.
NG911 multimedia sharing allows telecommunicators to have greater communication access to callers in need while receiving life-saving information through various forms of multimedia in real-time.
In this blog post, our leading NG911 providers at NGA will discuss:
- Next Generation 911 multimedia sharing
- What it is and how it works
- Adapting 911 systems for use with mobile devices
- Types of multimedia supported
- How NG911 is bringing the 911 industry and first responders into the digital era
NG911 And Multimedia Sharing: What Is It And How It Works
By definition, multimedia sharing is simply the sharing of various forms of media through the web or smart device. This is made possible by an internet connection. Next Generation 911 is an emergency communication system that relies on Internet Protocol (IP) and cloud-based networks to operate.
With NG911, emergency response professionals can accept 911 data and notifications from digitally connected devices. The information received through multimedia sharing capabilities is routed from 911 callers to the correct PSAP or ECC and first responders.
NG911 multimedia sharing can connect to a wide variety of devices, such as:
- Car computers
- Computerized home alarms
- Wearable monitors
- Building sensors
Adapting 911 System for use with Mobile Devices
Advances in technology have created a pressing need to adapt the nation's emergency communication systems to be responsive and accessible on smartphones.
Because the Next Generation 911 system relies on cloud and IP-based networks to function, it's designed to be compatible with smartphones and smart devices. In turn, NG911 makes emergency response services more accessible now more than ever for those in need.
What Types of Multimedia Does NG911 Support?
A significant purpose of Next Generation 911 is to allow seamless data sharing between telecommunicators, emergency call centers, first responders, and 911 callers.
This is made possible through NG911 technology that supports sharing through the following types of multimedia:
Photos - The NG911 system can access images of an accident or emergency sent via smartphone or other devices. This allows telecommunicators to assess the situation by viewing real-time photos taken at the scene. Photos can also be shared with first responders for increased situational awareness.
Text Messaging - NG911 multimedia sharing can support real-time text messaging (RTT) from a caller to the emergency response team. This allows for more back-and-forth communication during an emergency situation. Text messages can also be shared with first responders to keep them updated on new developments or information while en route to the scene.
Voice or Voice-To-Text - NG911's voice and voice-to-text technology allow emergency response professionals to obtain information from callers during an emergency situation. Next Generation 911 voice messaging will enable individuals who cannot type to still communicate with 911 professionals during an emergency through voice messaging.
Voice-to-text enables 911 callers to share information about their circumstances via voice text. With this NG911 multimedia sharing capability, telecommunicators can receive written messages through digital communication devices.
Videos - NG911 supports videos that allow telecommunicators access to the first-person perspective of an emergency. This increases situational awareness and preparation before responders arrive on the scene. Videos can be used in situations such as active shootings or natural disasters where it's difficult for callers to relay information verbally.
Next Generation 911’s multimedia capabilities make it a revolutionary system that changes how first responders respond during emergencies across the nation.
How NG911 Multimedia Sharing Offers Better Information for Responders
At a time when the nation’s 911 infrastructure is largely comprised of old and soon-to-be-obsolete technology, NG911 offers a more robust service. The interconnected system can seamlessly transfer calls between PSAPs. This is especially beneficial in times when other PSAPs or ECCs are damaged by situations beyond their control.
The Next Generation 911 system makes it easier to load-share between telecommunicators and first responders. This is essential for emergency responsiveness and the need to involve multiple agencies when necessary.
Not only does this make 911 systems more resilient, but it also allows for the access of real-time and potentially life-saving information for:
- Dispatchers
- Law Enforcement
- Firefighters
- Emergency Medical Services
Next Generation 911 Media Sharing And Law Enforcement
Real-time multimedia sharing with NG911 such as live video streaming could help many types of first responders, including law enforcement officers.
Example #1: When a child goes missing, a photo of the child and the abductor can be circulated to computers in police squad cars and smartphones.
Example #2: In a domestic violence incident, most victims can't talk or call 911. With NG911 text messaging, they can text for help. A text to 911 can help summon an officer sooner while also keeping the victim safer in these cases.
Fire Response with Next Generation 911
NG911 will also help sharpen the focus of fire prevention and enforce stricter building codes to help keep firefighters safe. As modern building construction uses connected sensors, alarms, and video monitors, these devices can transmit data to PSAPs using Next Generation 911.
These connected devices can collect data to help firefighters make more informed decisions at the scene, such as:
- Real-time temperature
- Sprinkler use
- Blocked exits
- Carbon monoxide levels
NG911 Multimedia Sharing And Medical Emergencies
The information responders receive through Next Generation 911 can also provide better patient care in emergencies in various circumstances, such as car accidents.
NG911 can receive notifications and accident information from the computer in newer cars equipped with computerized systems.
This information can include:
- Impact speed
- Direction of impact
- Number of occupants
- Airbag deployment
Using algorithms to evaluate this data, researchers can predict when occupants are more likely to have severe injuries that require special equipment and resources. This information is also vital for determining if a car crash victim needs to be transported to a trauma center.
Conclusion
We know that NG9-1-1 is on the rise, and it’s clear to see why. With so many options available for communicating with first responders during emergencies, this system will revolutionize how people communicate in a crisis.
Next Generation 911 will also be able to interface with the myriad of smart sensors and devices. This means faster, more accurate data shared with first responders. The shared information can help emergency response professionals better understand what has happened before they arrive at the scene of an accident or natural disaster. This can lead to quicker decision making, ultimately leading to improved safety for everyone involved.
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