City Council Will Vote on Paul Krekorian’s Proposal to Bring L.A,’s 9-1-1 Emergency Response System Into 21st Century
‘Next Generation 911’ Allows Text Messages, Photos
In an effort to dramatically improve the L.A.’s emergency call processing, Councilmember Paul Krekorian is urging the city to study “Next Generation 911,” a modern service that would allow residents to instantaneously transmit a wide range of information to 911 operators, including text messages, photos and videos.
Eighty percent of Americans use their cell phones to send and receive text messages, photos and videos. However, the technology that most people use to communicate is not compatible with LA’s emergency response system. LA residents can only contact 911 by placing a phone call. Cities around the country are either updating or considering changes to their 911 systems to accommodate text messaging.
Councilmember Krekorian authored a motion urging the city to consider Next Generation 911, a modern service that would accept text message and allow for instant communication with emergency response systems. It relies on broadband technology and can transmit a wide range of information immediately. As the city discusses how to improve emergency call processing and achieve efficiency, Next Generation 911 should be a central focus.
“If you send a text message asking for help to 911 today, you get an automated return message telling you to call 911,” said Councilmember Paul Krekorian. “Our system needs upgrading and updating. We should look into the possibility of implementing Next Generation 911 in Los Angeles right away. It will give people with speech or hearing impairments access to this essential service, and allow people in dangerous situations to send texts or photos instantaneously to a 911 operator. This technology could help save lives and improve our emergency services.”
Councilmember Krekorian’s motion gives city staff six months to analyze how LA can achieve Next Generation 911 capability.
Los Angeles City Councilmember Paul Krekorian, chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee, represents Council District 2, which includes North Hollywood, Studio City, Valley Village and other communities in the east San Fernando Valley. His website is cd2.lacity.org, where you can sign up for news updates. Visit him on Twitter (@PaulKrekorian) or Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/paulkrekorian
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