Advancing the Alert (Pt. 2)
Since the early days of firefighting, dispatch communication centers and fire stations have adopted more advanced forms of fire alerting using radio-based systems. These systems are capable of relaying critical information to first responders that let them know where the fire is and what they are up against so they can prepare in advance.
Radio-based systems are still in use, but they have significant downsides for larger operations, including not being able to alert multiple units at a time, misunderstood messages, and putting distressed callers on hold while alerts are sent out.
Despite these limitations, radio-based alerting is still an excellent option for smaller fire departments and for larger fire departments that require redundant communications for alerting. This redundancy reduces the risk of missing calls and helps fire departments comply National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Codes.
With the introduction of computers in the 1970’s, a new technology entered the scene to make an impact in fire station alerting: Computer-Aided Dispatch.
Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD)
Dispatcher monitors a Zetron MAX emergency response console.
Photo Credit: Stolz Telecom
The Los Angeles Police Department partnered with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to develop the first Computer-aided dispatch (CAD) in 1972. [1] Today, nearly all Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) use some sort of CAD to assist in call-taking and dispatching.
CAD assists fire departments in more efficiently dispatching emergency services. An enhanced 911 (E911) call is received, automatically displaying the location and phone number, and sending this information to the CAD system.
Based on the location, asset location, and call type, the CAD system can auto-generate a dispatch recommendation based on the response criteria of the local emergency service protocols. The operator can also make necessary changes according to the nature of the response required.
Once the dispatcher makes the changes and accepts the response recommendations, the CAD generates a series of tones broadcast through an encoder connected to the land mobile radio system.
Automated Fire Station Alerting (FSA)
Urban expansion and growing populations often put a lot of strain on fire departments dealing with more calls using the same or fewer resources. Automated FSA systems deliver a solution for busy fire departments that are increasingly asked to do more.
An automated FSA system can significantly enhance the capabilities of CAD, as all the information related to the emergency can be delivered to first responders without having to put the caller on hold.
Firefighters respond to an emergency.
Photo Credit: Unknown
Fire station alerts can be configured in various ways, including:
Voice dispatching
Automated “rip and run” printers
Starting countdown timers
Activating multi-unit indicator lights
Opening bay doors
Shutting off gas stoves
Switching over traffic lights for faster exits
FSA systems can automate many procedures and cut response time down by the precious few seconds needed to save lives.
While CAD and FSA have significantly advanced the efficiency of emergency dispatching and alerting, there is still more to be done to advance emergency response, especially when you consider the health and safety of the crew.
References:
Morgan, Kenneth E., "Computer aided dispatch technology: A study of the evolution and expectations of CAD and a comparative survey of CAD in the U. S. Fire Service and the Clark County Fire Department." (2003). UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones. 573. http://dx.doi.org/10.34917/1731606