73 percent of 911 calls in California are made from cell phones. That’s why the FCC wants to be able to use Next Generation 911 (NG911) to be able to pinpoint a caller’s location. Cell phone use and smartphone use now has exploded, and is taking 911 to new heights. While in the past, 911 dispatchers could typically only respond to cell phone calls placed outdoors, now they may be able to respond from any location.
80 percent of all smartphone use occurs indoors, according to the FCC and PC Magazine. It’s because of that fact that the FCC is calling on wireless providers o meet location accuracy standards. With new standards, 911 operators will be able to find callers in their exact location. So whether you’re calling from your apartment, or from an elevator in a busy office building, help will be able to find you.
However, that type of location detection will require some advanced technology. FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler said that advanced indoor location technology must be deployed in order to deploy that type of communications infrastructure. Wireless providers and 911 centers both have to install new technologies in order to make it possible.
The FCC is taking the steps to ensure that PSAPs, or 911 call centers, make a full transition to NG911, to make sure that everyone stays safe, no matter the location. Has your 911 center taken the steps?
Call Capture Techologies to find out more about new public safety technology and NG911.
