The use of GPS technology in emergency response is increasing rapidly. Listed below are a few of the ways that it has been used or might be used in the future. If you would like to share additional ideas on how GPS can be used please email them to:
GPS Use in Emergency Response:
Pinpoint
Location of Emergency Reports: GPS equipped
cell phones can transmit precise locations to 911
dispatchers. This allows the dispatcher to have
an immediate and accurate location instead of relying
upon descriptions of people who may be unfamiliar
with the area or too distraught to explain their
location. The same technology has also helped catch
people who make crank 911 calls from their GPS-enabled
cell phone.
Speedy Arrival Thanks To GPS: GPS software can be used to quickly tell which emergency vehicle is closest to an accident or other emergency. With GPS coordinates associated with land-line telephone numbers, a 911 location can be quickly plotted on a map and the closest emergency response vehicle can be quicly identified, shaving precious minutes off of the response time.
