The province of Nova Scotia has begun the process of testing a new system that will allow for new methods by which people can contact 911, according to The CBC. Intended to allow for compliance with the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications commission’s 2017 mandate to provide support for more than voice communication, the new system is looking to support the use of pictures and videos, as well as the use of real-time texting and improved location tracking. Says Dave Wilson, director for the province’s Emergency Management Office, of the upgrade “I think in the end that will help support an individual who has an emergency, ensuring we have the right emergency support going to that call.”
The improved location tracking for cell phones is considered to be of great importance to first responders. Ron Williscroft, a member of the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials, says, “It’s all about location, location, location…. We can’t send help to you unless we know exactly where you are.”
New features are expected to be rolled out over the next couple years, with the goal of meeting the CTRC’s deadline for completion of 2024.
Source:
