More on E911 - Next generation

The 911 emergency call system urgently needs upgrading to accommodate new technologies, according to a recent study by the National Emergency Number Association (NENA), Washington Technology reported March 10.

NENA's study resulted from its E911 program, a public-private partnership of 26 representatives of the technology industry and public safety interests. NENA sees the rapid development of wireless and IP-based devices and video and text messaging as beyond the capabilities of the current 911 system; thus the system needs "a significant overhaul." The study notes a report by the Network Reliability and Interoperability Council (NRIC) presenting the concept of an "internetwork" emergency communications system, connecting "the multiplicity of local, regional, and national wireline and wireless networks...in effect, a system of systems." NENA also envisions such an interconnected model in E911's future.

Next Generation 9-1-1-: Responding to an Urgent Need for Change
(pdf, 1MB, 24p., from NENA)

Communication Isssues for Emergency Communications Beyond E911
(pdf, 1.2MB, 71p., from NRIC)

Related FR post: Wireless E911 progress