VIDEO: The Gem State is moving forward with a major modernization of its emergency response system after the Idaho Public Safety Communications Commission approved $15 million in grant funding for Next Generation 911 technology.
The upgraded 911 system will replace old analog infrastructure and allow residents to send photos, videos and text messages to emergency dispatchers. The new technology also provides more precise location data by pulling information directly from callers’ phones rather than relying on cell tower routing. “This is an important step for Idaho to move away from the legacy equipment that currently is the backbone of 911,” Payette County Sheriff Andy Creech said. “This is an effort to bring us the modern technology that is already used in our houses and businesses.”
Law enforcement discussed the rollout during a public meeting in Fruitland on Tuesday, explaining how the system will also allow dispatch centers to serve as backups for one another and handle call surges during disasters. The enhanced capabilities will give dispatchers new ways to communicate with callers during emergencies, allowing them to exchange media and provide better situational awareness.
