WASHINGTON – New technology is being used at Daviess County Sheriff’s Department Central Dispatch.
The program is called Prepared Live.
The scene’s live videos, photos, and text are delivered directly to dispatchers and responders.
Through Prepared Live, dispatchers can ask to access the camera on the 9-1-1 caller’s cell phone. If the caller consents, a link will be texted from Central Dispatch to the caller’s phone.
The link will open in the phone’s browser before allowing the caller to share live-streaming pictures, video, and audio. Police can use the software on any call where the caller can safely use their phone.
The images give officers and first responders eyes on the scene, and responders see firsthand what they could face. First responders arrive on the scene better prepared.
The live feed of the video ends when the user decides to end the call, and dispatch cannot reaccess the live cameras without a new user agreement. At this time, the video does not record audio. However, the user can remain on the phone with the dispatcher during the video chat. Users can also upload old videos they have already recorded in case the individuals need to upload evidence or a report.
While the county never wants to see a mass shooter event, the service can also be used to help both victims and deputies who are responding. In a hypothetical emergency response to a shooter in a school, those who are able can power up their cameras and give first responders who are rushing to the scene an inside look as to what is going on inside. That would allow the police to quickly see where in the building it was safe while also showing how they can safely and quickly access people who are hiding or trapped.
It also helps with 911 call hang-ups. See the video below.
Knox County Sheriff’s Department added the feature a year ago.
According to those who have already benefited from the tool, the new technology is the future of emergency response and can save lives.
