By Erin Hicks
FireRescue1 Staff
911 dispatchers are the first to hear about an incident scene that needs responders’ attention — now thanks to EnRoute, they’ll also be the first to see it.
EnRoute is one of the first computer aided dispatch systems to feature live traffic streaming videos. The continuously updating feeds enable dispatchers to see for themselves the scene of the incident before fire and EMS crews can get there.
EnRoute, part of the Infor group, has launched the new system thanks to a partnership with TrafficLand. It was announced at the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials annual conference in Houston earlier this month.
“There’s no one with anything like it,” Matt Williams, senior account manager, said. “Not only is it a unique partnership with TrafficLand, but it uses the next generation technology.”
TrafficLand has traffic video cameras that operate on most major roadways around the country. EnRoute utilizes this to enable users to see roadway incidents in real time, improving field evaluation and response.
The mapping technology involves GPS information and routing that incorporates traffic cam data to show congestion of roads and additional information responders might not have access to, according to Jocelyn Rhodes, marketing communications manager. “Now responders can be more preemptive when routing around congestion to decrease response time and lower risk of further injury,” she said.
Layers in the software can show fire hydrants, lock boxes, specific entrances to schools; “things you wouldn’t have on your standard Google/Bing maps,” Rhodes said.
But how does this upgrade benefit smaller agencies in rural areas that may not have a traffic monitoring camera on every block?
“This is a good solution for agencies with preexisting infrastructure, but even if you’re a smaller agency, it’s a good long-term plan,” Williams said. “It’s only a matter of time before we have a centralized warehouse of live video feeds for first responders to use.”
EnRoute is being used at more than 100 dispatch locations around the country.
Based in Tampa, Fla, EnRoute Emergency Systems, an Infor company, is a leading supplier of public safety applications that meet the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) and records management systems (RMS) requirements of law enforcement and toll highway agencies, fire/EMS departments, and ambulance service providers. To find it, visit www.infor.com.