ECC Technologies

Next Generation 9-1-1 system (commonly referred to as NG911) is a digital, internet protocol (IP)-based system that is replacing outdated analog 9-1-1 infrastructure across the nation. NG911 enhances emergency number services by creating a faster, more reliable system that seamlessly conveys voice, photos, videos, and text messages from emergency callers to public safety answering points (PSAPs), all with phone subscriber information and location data. NG911 also improves PSAPs’ ability to manage call volume and inter-PSAP transfer of 9-1-1 calls.

Multi-functional Telecommunications Consoles provide varied means through which PSTs receive most requests for service. PSTs answer, conference, and transfer calls using programmed buttons. NG9-1-1 calls facilitate a rapid response to a reported incident by providing automated call data that simultaneously feeds the CAD and mapping systems (see below). In turn, these systems enable the PST to quickly develop the operational situation.

Land Mobile Radio (LMR) System: Voice over two-way radio is the primary method of communication between dispatchers and operations units. NPD radios operate on an 800MHz bandwidth trunked environment but have conventional communication capability. From multi-function radio consoles, NPD PSTs can communicate with NPD, fire-rescue, and EMS units throughout Collier County, and with several entities beyond the county.

Computer-aided Dispatch (CAD) system: NPD employs Motorola’s PremierOne (P1) CAD jointly with the Collier County Sheriff Office. P1 CAD consists of relational data tables with multiple interfaces that facilitate the gathering, recording, and exchange of information, concurrently providing operational continuity and real-time archiving. As such, CAD is the primary automated information system used by PSTs for NPD operations. CAD’s operational continuity makes it a practical back-up communications medium. Were the radio system to degrade to where units could not effectively communicate, PSTs can exchange information with units that are logged into their mobile data computers.

Multiple Mapping Programs: Geographic Information Software (GIS) enables plotting of 9-1-1 calls and CAD-generated incidents on digital maps. Besides roads and natural geography, software features such as building footprints, automatic vehicle/resource location (AVL/ARL), and an aerial photograph enable PSTs to get a common “bird’s eye view” of the operational situation.

Partnerships:

• RapidSOS is a public safety partner that securely links life-saving data from connected devices, apps and sensors to the ECC and first responders. It provides real-time views with detailed information of unfolding emergencies on the ECC’s maps. More information is available on the RapidSOS website (www.rapdisos.com)
• ASAP-to-PSAP: The Association of Public-safety Officials (APCO) and The [alarm] Monitoring Association (TMA) have worked together to standardize a process for automated transfer of alarm notification information between alarm company central stations and the local PSAP. The result of their joint effort is commonly called Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP). Via ASAP-to-PSAP, alarm monitoring companies route alarm data to the corresponding PSAP’s CAD system, creating a CAD incident for the associated alarm, thereby expediting data entry and unit response.
• Smart911 is a private company that enables you to create a safety profile for your household. You can include vital personal and medical information that you would want emergency responders to know in case of an emergency. If you dial 911, your profile is immediately available to PSTs and emergency responders who can assist you faster and more effectively. Go to the Smart911 website (www.smart911.com) to create your safety profile today.

Integration: While these systems and programs—phones, radio, CAD, or GIS—are technologically linked in various ways, each system processes information via differing media—voice, data, and graphics—that do not automatically integrate with all others. Thus, no single system paints a complete picture of the operational environment. Like spokes on a constantly turning wheel, each medium carries information between the wheel—the outside world—and the hub: the ECC, where skilled PSTs utilize these disparate yet interrelated media to update and assess the constantly evolving operational situation.