Next Generation 9-1-1
According to the National Emergency Number Association (NENA), NG9-1-1 is “a system comprised of hardware, software, data and operational policies and procedures… to provide standardized interfaces from call and message services, process all types of emergency calls including non-voice (multi-media) messages, acquire and integrate additional data useful to call routing and handling, deliver the calls/messages and data to the appropriate PSAPs and appropriate emergency entities, support data and communication needs for coordinated incident response and management, [and to] provide a secure environment for emergency communications.” [NENA Definitions Document, September 2008]
In other words, the current 9-1-1 system was built in the 1970s and was designed to handle only landline telephone service. As consumers and businesses use and demand new technology [such as text messaging, video, Instant Messenger (IM), email, and Short Message Service (SMS)], these trends are forcing 9-1-1 centers to change the way they operate so they can receive emergency information using these and other methods. NG9-1-1 must migrate to an open, secure architecture that uses a secure managed IP (Internet Protocol) network to enable these new communication devices to access 9-1-1 service.
To have a 9-1-1 system that enables the transmission of voice, video or data from different types of communication devices to PSAPs (Public Safety Answering Points) and to emergency responders.
Accepting such useful forms of communication, a PSAP can provide quicker, more accurate information to emergency responders; provide more flexible, secure and robust operations; and have lower capital and operating costs. More effective incident management means safer first responders and more life-saving opportunities at less cost to citizens.
Additionally, NG9-1-1 is being designed to provide redundancy in case a PSAP becomes inoperable for any reason – whether it be a man-made or natural disaster. In such a case, emergency calls would automatically reroute to another PSAP for response.
The current analog 9-1-1 network and infrastructure cannot adequately support the technology needs of the future. Landline, wireless and other commercial communication systems are already making the transition to IP-based (Internet Protocol) networks.
In “catching up” to technology, 9-1-1 systems can provide more functionality, enable faster data exchanges with other PSAPs (Public Safety Answering Points), data providers and emergency responders. PSAPs can make greater use of information, allowing emergency responders to be better prepared, while also facilitating a cooperative multi-agency response.
In short, if PSAPs can accept information from a variety of technology sources, emergency services are more readily available to citizens AND valuable, potentially life-saving information and images can be quickly relayed to responders.
Currently, NG9-1-1 is in its early stages of planning. NENA (National Emergency Number Association) and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) are working on NG9-1-1 projects. The state of Washington also has an Enhanced 9-1-1 (E9-1-1) Advisory Committee that is working on a deployment plan.
NG9-1-1 will require a new emergency response network architecture be designed, along with new and/or modified standards for data transmission/receipt and 9-1-1 call-taker and management processes, procedures and training. Data security issues must also be dealt with, as will funding issues. Changes will likely come in phases.
For more information on NENA’s NG9-1-1 Project: NENA NG9-1-1
For more information on ITS’s NG9-1-1 Project: ITS NG9-1-1
For more information about Washington Enhanced 9-1-1 (E9-1-1) Advisory Committee: Washington NG9-1-1
IP Internet Protocol is the method by which data is sent from one computer to another. This is done on the internet or other network. Each computer has at least one IP address, uniquely identifying it from other computers on the internet.
NENA The National Emergency Number Association is an organization that fosters the technological advancement, availability and implementation of the universal emergency telephone number system, otherwise known as 9-1-1.
PSAP A Public Safety Answering Point is a facility equipped and staffed to receive 9-1-1 calls. In Pierce County, LESA is the region’s primary PSAP.
VoIP Voice over Internet Protocol services convert voice into a digital signal that travels over the internet. When a person calls a regular phone number, the signal is converted to a regular telephone signal before reaching its destination. VoIP allows a call to be placed directly from a computer, a special VoIP phone or from a traditional telephone connected to an adapter.
