Having the right equipment during that time can make all the difference. Technology can minimize the amount of time it takes to receive, process and communicate information, as well as give emergency responders the pertinent details to enable them to make the best decision as quickly as possible. This is why EOCs are constantly investing in new ideas, gear and technology. Video technology, in particular, has become integral in EOCs across the country.
From an administrative perspective, EOCs function like many other businesses. Employees have conversations at the most fundamental level and exchange ideas and feedback between state and federal centers. Video conferencing allows EOCs to host group teleconferences using digital signage in each center, connecting responders instantaneously to discuss ideas and share information. Even following emergency dispatchers, managers and other responders now have a better way of breaking down what happened and how it could have been handled better. Having this platform to facilitate a high level of interaction not only provides responders with immediate information to develop response strategies, but it also fosters a greater level of collaboration and unity among EOCs across the country.
When an EOC is activated to respond to a crisis, it’s critical that the information is relayed quickly, clearly and directly. Instead of trying to spread knowledge from person to person, EOCs can broadcast information to reach everyone at one time and minimize the amount of human communication that could be misinterpreted and is time-consuming to disseminate. Since this communication is how responders formulate a plan, having a technology that enables the immediate distribution has allowed EOCs to operate much more efficiently. In time-sensitive and stressful situations where responders can feel rushed, having technology that can limit the possibility of miscommunications and misinterpretations is sometimes the difference between life and death.
Virtual interaction tools have made it possible for police and first responders to have face-to-face conversations where they can share screens, content and information. While it’s helpful to understand and see exactly what a colleague sees, what can be even more beneficial is being able to interpret that person’s reaction and understand his body language in real time. For the situations when police and dispatchers can’t exchange information in person, video collaboration tools are the next best option because they re-create all of the advantages of in-person communication remotely, instantly and effectively.
For instance, the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) has adopted several video solutions to help its officers better ensure public safety. Improved connectivity and faster response times were important goals for MSHP, and investing in technology proved to be the best decision for responders to achieve this level of service. Instead of information passing through several people, MSHP installed a video collaboration system to allow responders to communicate in real time and formulate a plan more efficiently during a crisis. In addition, MSHP has also deployed a mobile command vehicle to serve as an on-site management center that relays real-time information and high-definition footage back to the agency for faster, safer and up-to-date responses. After several years of being put to the test and helping police respond to major incidents including the deadly Joplin tornado in 2011, the 2015 riots in Ferguson and other everyday mishaps, communicating in emergency situations has proven to be simpler, faster and more effective with video technology that enables collaboration at the highest level.
Video capabilities for EOCs extend far beyond the centers and the responders themselves. Out in the field, police need equipment that is reliable and easy to use. Video collaboration tools eliminate a significant amount of the extra time it used to take responders to travel back and forth, relay information and communicate to make decisions. While in the field, a first responder can check in using his smartphone or tablet, connect face-to-face with the EOC and gather information alongside others to create a response strategy.
IP video surveillance gear has proven to be another way video technology is changing the EOC environment by making it safer and more efficient. Like many of the other video collaboration tools, this higher-quality video stream can be accessed from a variety of devices instantly in the field or in the office. Like many of the other video collaboration tools, this video stream can be accessed from a variety of devices instantly in the field or office. Not only is it reachable, but IP video is keeping police and civilians safer because dispatchers have a clearer, immediate and more accessible means to oversee an emergency situation.
Another example is Arlington County, Va., which uses a mobile network and IP video capabilities to allow police officers and other city employees to access real-time data while they’re out in the streets. Given its close proximity to the nation’s capital, Arlington County needed an efficient way to streamline its public safety operations in order to best respond to emergencies. With that in mind, video technology became the clear solution to help employees access the data they need instantly. Despite initial security concerns of having an open and mobile network, the county now agrees that IP surveillance and video collaboration technologies are not only secure, but also effective in raising EOC interconnectivity and reducing emergency response time.
When first responders can combine forces at all levels to prepare for an emergency, civilians are better protected and the community can rely on the best possible response. Video technology has become an indispensable part of EOC responses. While some of the benefits are clear and help EOCs cut down on response time, video technology’s ability to improve and assist collaboration is perhaps the most significant. The wide range of instant video tools that can facilitate how efficiently EOCs can share information, brainstorm, respond and analyze the situation has proven to be effective and make a difference in the community.
Bob Stanberry is the senior law enforcement adviser for Cisco and spent more than 16 years in law enforcement, justice, safety and security in the public and private sectors.
