NEXT GENE
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
NG911
What isNext Generation 911 (NG911)? NG911 is an internet protocol (IP)- based 911 system that will replace the existing analog 911 infrastructure. NG911 allows 911 callers, through mobile and digital devices, to communicate with 911 call centers, also known as Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). This includes the ability to share richer data such as videos, images and texts. It also enhances the ability of 911 call centers to better communicate with each other and improves 911 system resiliency. Who is buildingNG911 systems? NG911 will be built by states, counties, municipalities and regional authorities. These 911 systems are all funded and managed differently. NG911 will be launched in each state according to its own unique circumstances and governance. Why isNG911 needed? NG911 is a necessary upgrade of the 911 system to adapt to how people communicate today - largely through mobile and digital devices. NG911 allows for the public and others to send digital data to 911 call centers, including audio and video recordings, livestreaming video, photos, texts, etc. 911 call centers will also be able to receive data from other transmitting devices such as wearable medical devices, car computers, building alarms, etc. NG911 is a critical component of a two-part emergency communications system (NG911 and FirstNet) which will allow for the sharing of more data with 911 dispatch centers and in turn with field responders. NG911 upgrades enable faster network communication, seamless integration and call load sharing between 911 call centers, a function severely limited or non-existent
the National Emergency Number Association (NENA), the Department of Transportation (DOT) and others. These organizations provided the initial vision and framework for how to integrate wireless and digital communications with the 911 infrastructure.
using today’s antiquated systems. In cases of mass casualty incidents or natural disasters, when the closest PSAP becomes overwhelmed by calls, an IP- based NG911 systemwill allow for the automated transfer and processing of calls at another available PSAP. HowdidNG911 come about? Recognizing that the growing use of mobile phones would impact emergency communications, national 911 associations called for all 911 call centers to begin upgrading their systems from analog, copper-based wire communications to systems that could integrate with mobile communications and digital data. Early work on NG911 was done in concert and independently at the national level by organizations such as the Association of Public–Safety Communications Officials (APCO),
What are the challenges in implementingNG911? Due to the need to invest in new
technologies and also maintain existing legacy 911 systems, funding will likely be a challenge for many states and localities. In addition, the implementation of NG911 may necessitate governancemodifications at the state and local level. Finally, NG911 may be implemented inconsistently across the nation, causing a potential divide between urban and rural communities as some areas move toward optimal 911 services more quickly than others.
BENEFITS OF NG911
Integrates with mobile and digital devices Allows for the sharing of digital data—video, text, photos, audio—with 911 call takers and field responders Offers a more robust system for load sharing during high call volume times Improved responder safety through quicker access to additional information Enables cost savings in network sharing and other resources, e.g. GIS mapping
2 Next Generation 911 & FirstNet
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