“New Generation 9-1-1” emergency dispatch services coming soon

For the first time, emergency dispatch agencies in California will be implementing updated communication services, enabling the public to contact emergency agencies through call, text, or video.

The updates are being introduced on a department by department basis. The Palm Springs Police Department is one of the first departments to update their dispatch center in the Coachella Valley.

“Every five years the state of CA provides funding that we’re able to apply for so that we can do updates to our dispatch center. That money specifically has to go to software upgrades, equipment upgrades–specifically in the dispatch center,” said Sgt. William Hutchinson of PSPD.

Residents who are in proximity to an agency that receives 9-1-1 texts can type 9-1-1 into the recipient box. If the dispatcher does not support text messages, a bounce back message will appear.

A new mapping system will also be introduced. The mapping system will triangulate the caller within a few meters rather than tracking the closest cell tower to the call.

“This is going to be a true update to be able to provide a far safer environment for 911 callers…We will be able to get to them far quicker,” said Hutchinson.

A “real time” video upgrade will also be available in Palm Springs in the upcoming months. Video callers will need reliable internet access to use the service.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department released this statement today;

“The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is currently in the planning stages for upgrading our 911 network system. We are looking at systems that will have 911 text and video capabilities. Our final product decision will be based on State of California Office of Emergency Services 911 standards once they are finalized.”

The California Emergency Dispatcher Association says that most California dispatchers should have the upgrades in effect as of 2020.