In the age of rapid technological advancements, our emergency communications technology has seen significant upgrades in recent years. From the traditional 9-1-1 infrastructure to NG9-1-1, we've come a long way regarding emergency communication. The NG9-1-1 (Next Generation 9-1-1) system is designed to enhance emergency communications and help save more lives by improving emergency communications' reliability, capacity, and interoperability.

In this blog from NGA, we'll discuss the basics of NG911 emergency networks, their importance, and how they're already revolutionizing the emergency communication ecosystem.

Table of Contents:

Next Generation 911: A Closer Look
How NG911 Differs from Traditional 911 Infrastructures
What are NG911 Emergency Networks?
The Importance of NG911 Networks
Benefits of NG911 Emergency Networks
Conclusion

Next Generation 911: A Closer Look

NG911 (Next Generation 911) is an IP (internet protocol) and cloud-based infrastructure. It's designed to establish an emergency communications system that can exchange live digital information about an emergency through voice, text, data, and video.

This upgrade from the traditional 911 system utilizes cutting-edge technology to improve emergency response and save lives. Because NG911 runs on secure, interconnected IP and cloud networks, it allows for faster and more streamlined communication between first responders and emergency dispatchers.

More efficient communication means more effective and reliable emergency response, ultimately keeping individuals and communities safer.

How NG911 Infrastructure Differs from Traditional 911 Infrastructures

Traditional 911 systems connect callers to emergency communication centers by identifying the location of a phone through its carrier network tower triangulation. However, NG911 provides accurate and precise location tracking capabilities using advanced Geographic Information System (GIS) technology.

For example, if a caller is in an accident and enables GPS tracking on their device, information on their location can be delivered through NG911 solutions with the GPS-enabled coordinates.

Other key differences between NG911 and traditional 911 systems include:

NG911 allows for integrating various forms of communication, such as real-time text messages, photos, and videos during emergencies.
NG911 is equipped with the capability to provide accurate caller location through GPS technology. This feature of NG911 is significant in rural areas where a caller might not know their location.
NG911's IP-based platform allows for a more accurate and efficient data transfer between emergency responders in the field and 911 dispatchers. The system is also equipped with data backups and failsafe measures to ensure that data is not lost in case of a system failure.
NG911's platform is designed to be resilient in system failures or natural disasters, ensuring that emergency calls are not missed.

What are NG911 Emergency Networks?

Next generation emergency networks are the grids that the infrastructure runs on. Internet protocol (IP) network is a computer network that refers to any group of devices, each with unique IP addresses, connected under the same network's technology.

These IP networks typically have specific rules defining how information and other data are sent and received over the internet network. For example, public safety organizations like PSAPs (public safety answering points) and other agencies must follow specific regulations and standards with NG911 networks.

Cloud-based networks are vast grid networks that host resources and users, allowing the two to communicate through cloud and cloud-based technologies. These networks often consist of virtual routers, firewalls, and various management software solutions.

The Importance of NG911 Networks

NG911 networks foster interoperability among PSAPs, aiding faster emergency responses. Seamless data sharing, especially in rural areas with limited resources, assisting in the dispatching EMS or fire departments.

These systems empower agencies to relay crucial information pre-arrival, directing real-time data to appropriate responders. In critical situations, where every second counts, NG911 features can be the vital time-saving difference.

When it all comes down to fast and efficient responses, seconds can make a difference, and NG911 network features can save precious time.

Benefits of NG911 Emergency Networks

NG911 networks offer several benefits, including interoperability, adaptability, scalability, and increased reliability. The NG911 system provides unmatched interoperability between agencies, allowing diverse departments to communicate and share real-time information.

This helps in disaster response, where first responders can quickly share information about evacuations and damage assessment. Additionally, NG911 allows agencies to scale their services according to changing needs, making it more adaptable to future emergencies.

Conclusion

Emergency communication networks with NG911 are already revolutionizing the emergency communication ecosystem, modernizing 911 call centers and integrating multimedia data services over a secure IP-based network. Although implementing the NG911 system can be challenging, it's a crucial step toward enhancing public safety, improving emergency communication infrastructure and being future ready.

The future of NG911 is bright, and as the system continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly create opportunities to revolutionize the emergency communications industry.