New system could improve emergency service response in a crisis

A new system has been announced which potentially could improve 999 response times and care in the UK.

Emergency services will be able to receive fast and accurate access to critical medical and personal details during a response call.

The system means data can be received from connected devices and sent to emergency communications centres and onto first responders.

RapidSOS has partnered with Hexagon’s Safety & Infrastructure division, a (CAD) software company, and is an extension of a project currently working in the US.

Jessica Reed – RapidSOS

It means that when a call is made from a user’s registered mobile phone or connected device, call handlers will automatically receive critical details about them to send to emergency services attending 999 call-outs. 

The technology securely links emergency intelligence data  – including medical status, vehicle crash data, devices directly to emergency services and first responders.

Jessica Reed, of RapidSOS, said: “The RapidSOS Platform is able to bring together crucial and potentially life-saving information from a variety of sources. Partnering with Hexagon in the US and now in the UK, helps ensure this information is delivered to the right place at the right time to make informed decisions, improve responses and save lives. 

“The RapidSOS Platform supports all sorts of data, from dynamic AML (Advanced Mobile Location) and alternative location services to additional details generated from security systems, connected mobility, healthcare, connected buildings, apps, and wearables.”

Ian Holmes, head of public safety for Hexagon’s Safety Infrastructure division UK, added: “There are a number of huge challenges ahead for public safety agencies, which require the capability to receive requests for service via not only voice but also through text, video, sensors, social media and instant messaging.

“HxGN OnCall can leverage many of these next generation information platforms. By partnering with RapidSOS, Hexagon is able to provide quick and efficient access to this information. As well as critical medical details, this also includes location accuracy and a range of supplemental information such as contact or building information.”