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Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are powerful tools that allow users to visualize, analyze, and interpret spatial data to understand relationships, patterns, and trends. GIS integrates various data types, including maps, satellite imagery, and statistical databases, and links them to a location on the Earth’s surface. This capability
y is particularly vital for emergency response systems, such as Next Generation 911 (NG911), designed to improve public safety by enabling faster and more accurate emergency response.
The Importance of GIS in NG911 Systems
NG911 is an advanced emergency communication system that allows the public to transmit text, images, video, and other data to 911 call centers. Unlike the traditional 911 system, NG911 relies heavily on digital and IP-based technologies. One of the core components of NG911 is integrating GIS data, which is crucial for accurately locating and dispatching emergency services.
Enhanced Location Accuracy
GIS data provides precise location information, which is essential for NG911 systems. When a 911 call is made, GIS data helps dispatchers quickly determine the caller’s exact location, even if the caller cannot provide it. This is particularly important when every second counts, such as medical emergencies, fires, or crimes in progress.
Improved Routing and Dispatching
With GIS data, NG911 systems can create more efficient routing for emergency responders. The system can analyze real-time traffic conditions, road closures, and other factors to determine the quickest and safest route to the emergency location. This not only reduces response times but also enhances the safety of first responders.
Common GIS Data Challenges in Emergency Response
Despite GIS’s benefits, several common issues with GIS data can confuse first responders and delay response times. Understanding these challenges is crucial for improving the effectiveness of NG911 systems.
Inaccurate or Outdated Data
One of the most significant challenges is the accuracy and timeliness of GIS data. Outdated maps or incorrect information can lead to misrouting and delays. For instance, a new housing development might not be included in the GIS database, causing responders to struggle to find the location.
Ambiguous Address Information
Street addresses can be sufficient for delivering mail but often need more for emergency response. For example, a single street address might represent a large business campus with multiple buildings. If a 911 caller reports an emergency from such a campus, responders might have difficulty locating the specific building if GIS data does not include detailed information about the internal layout.
Lack of Detailed Building Information
In many GIS databases, detailed internal building information is lacking. This can be problematic in emergencies occurring within large structures, such as malls, hospitals, or office complexes. First responders need to know the street address and the exact location within the building, such as the floor and room number, to assist those in need effectively.
Inconsistent Naming Conventions
Local naming conventions can vary widely and add to the confusion. Buildings within a single campus might have names familiar to employees but not to emergency responders. GIS data might only convey the precise location with standardized naming conventions, leading to potential delays.
Sources of GIS Data
GIS data can be sourced from various places, each contributing to a comprehensive and accurate mapping system. The key sources include:
Government Agencies
Federal, state, and local government agencies are primary GIS data sources. These agencies collect and maintain extensive datasets, including topographical maps, land use information, and transportation networks. For example, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) provides detailed maps and geographic data for the entire country.
Satellite and Aerial Imagery
Satellite and aerial imagery provide up-to-date and highly detailed views of the Earth’s surface. Companies like Google and Esri use these images to create and update their maps. This data is invaluable for capturing recent changes in the landscape, such as new construction or natural disasters.
Crowdsourced Data
Crowdsourced data collected from the public through various platforms can also enhance GIS databases. Applications like OpenStreetMap allow users to contribute and edit map information, providing real-time updates and local knowledge that might not be available through traditional sources.
Private Sector
Many private companies collect and sell GIS data. These companies often focus on specific industries, such as real estate, transportation, or utilities, and provide highly specialized data that can be integrated into broader GIS systems.
Improving GIS Data for Emergency Response
To ensure that GIS data effectively supports NG911 systems, several improvements can be made:
Regular Updates and Maintenance
GIS data must be regularly updated to reflect new developments, changes in infrastructure, and other dynamic factors. This requires ongoing collaboration between government agencies, private companies, and the public.
Detailed Address Information
GIS databases should include detailed address information, especially for large campuses or complex buildings. This means recording street addresses and internal details like building names, floor plans, and room numbers.
Standardized Naming Conventions
Adopting standardized naming conventions for buildings and locations can reduce confusion and ensure that all responders clearly understand the site. This might involve creating national or regional standards for naming and addressing.
Training and Education
First responders need training on how to use GIS data effectively. This includes understanding the limitations of the data and knowing how to interpret and verify the information they receive.
Integration with Other Technologies
To enhance accuracy, NG911 systems should integrate GIS data with other technologies, such as mobile location services. For instance, using the GPS data from a caller’s mobile phone in conjunction with GIS data can pinpoint the caller’s location more precisely.
GIS plays a critical role in the effectiveness of NG911 systems. By providing accurate and detailed location information, GIS helps reduce response times and improve the safety and efficiency of emergency services. However, to fully realize these benefits, addressing common issues with GIS data, such as accuracy, detail, and standardization is essential. By sourcing data from various providers and ensuring regular updates, we can build robust GIS databases that support first responders in saving lives and protecting communities.
As NG911 systems continue to be deployed nationwide, the importance of high-quality GIS data cannot be overstated. By understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with GIS, we can ensure that emergency response systems are equipped with the best information to serve the public effectively.
The Role of 911inform in Enhancing GIS-Based Emergency Response
911inform is an Enterprise-class Emergency Management Platform designed to provide the previously discussed Private Data that can bridge the gap between commercial environments and public safety agencies. This innovative platform collects data from various commercial settings, such as schools, hospitals, office buildings, and industrial complexes, and compiles it into a format compliant with ESRI standards. By doing so, the 911inform platform and its suite of utility applications help ensure that the information is readily consumable by advanced GIS-based command and control platforms utilized by public safety organizations. This seamless integration enables first responders to access critical details about the emergency location, such as building layouts, entry points, and specific hazards, significantly enhancing situational awareness and response effectiveness. By leveraging 911inform, public safety agencies can improve operational efficiency, reduce response times, and save lives by accessing comprehensive, up-to-date information supporting informed decision-making during emergencies.
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Mark J. Fletcher, ENP
VP Public Safety at 911inform, LLC
833-333-1911 http://www.911inform.com
The World According to Fletch . . . 