The global pandemic may have delayed the mandatory implementation of Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) for many agencies across Canada, but the transformation of emergency response systems is still fast approaching.
For those unfamiliar with NG9-1-1, it’s the evolution of telecommunication networks and software to match the capabilities and utilization of today’s digital landscape. Rather than landlines delivering voice-only calls to public safety answering points (PSAPs), NG9-1-1 solutions will enable them to receive data (i.e., voice, text, photos, video) from an array of electronics – from cell phones to Internet of Things (IoT) connected devices. The ability to communicate and receive data in new ways will better define the scope of emergencies for dispatchers and first responders.
Three NG9-1-1 “must-haves”
The Canadian NG9-1-1 coalition has identified and defined three strategic must-haves outcomes for delivering a successful NG9-1-1 system across the nation. They include:
- Universal access: PSAPs must accept multiple sources of emergency communications and data into a unified interface.
- Interoperability: PSAPs across the country currently use many different technologies and processes for their operations. According to the coalition, a truly successful NG9-1-1 system will support communications and coordination between agencies through interoperable technologies and procedures.
- Agility: Technology has evolved at lightning speed since the NG9-1-1 was originally introduced, and it will continue to change. NG9-1-1 capabilities must be agile and adaptable to meet new community expectations and capabilities.
Updated implementation timeline
While the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the original timeline for the first stage of NG9-1-1 implementation by 9-15 months, those deadlines still loom for PSAPs and service providers.
In June 2017, the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) directed phone companies to update their networks so they can provide emergency voice and text messaging services in the near future.
The first deliverable is due March 2021, when NG9-1-1 network providers must be equipped to receive NG9-1-1 voice calls. However, the CRTC Emergency Services Working Group recommends early adopters like Toronto be ready far in advance of that date to help illuminate issues that could affect PSAPs nationwide.
September 2021 is the next (new) deadline. This is when NG9-1-1 network providers must deliver their real-time text (RTT) specifications. Wireless service providers are required to offer text-to-911 service by March 2022. And by the end of March 2024, all existing 9-1-1 networks must be decommissioned.
The ramifications of a systemic overhaul of this nature are obvious to vendors as well. Hexagon’s Safety & Infrastructure division, a computer-aided dispatch (CAD) partner for many PSAPs and police and fire agencies across Canada, has been proactively working with customers on voice trials, software integration testing, and more to ensure a smooth transition.
Want to learn more about NG9-1-1 and what it means for your agency? Download Hexagon’s NG9-1-1 white paper today.
