PIERRE South Dakota 911 call centers have recently began implementing the RapidSOS Unite GIS module, an AI-powered intelligent safety platform that securely connects life-saving data from over 540 million devices, apps, and sensors directly to 911 centers and first responders across the state. The upgrade enhances the capability of an introductory version of the program successfully tested state-wide.
Traditionally, 911 telecommunicators relied solely on what a caller could verbally communicate during an emergency. With RapidSOS, South Dakotas emergency responders now receive additional vital information instantly including caller location, contact details, health profiles, vehicle crash data, alarm alerts, and even cell phone video in some cases. This data helps accelerate response times and improve on-scene decision-making.
Being able to receive a callers near real-time location and other information can better inform our Public Safety Answering Points during emergency response, said Jason Husby, statewide 911 coordinator. RapidSOS helps PSAPs respond, dispatch, and allocate resources more efficiently by sharing critical data, strengthening our connection to the communities we serve.
One key feature now live in South Dakota is RapidSOS GIS, which overlays locally sourced mapping data such as trails, mile markers, fire hydrants, and boat ramps on top of standard maps to more accurately locate callers in both urban and rural areas.
Additionally, RapidSOS provides a redundant digital connection to 911 centers. In the event of outages or disasters, it serves as a backup system, enabling telecommunicators to continue receiving caller location and contact information and even call citizens back.
Citizens are encouraged to update their emergency health profiles through their smartphones Health or Health Connect apps, allowing first responders to access medical details that may be crucial in emergencies. By doing so, important health information will automatically be available to the 911 dispatchers in the event the caller is unable to communicate that information. The health information is only shared with the PSAP during an incoming 911 call.
RapidSOS is a global safety company working with over 22,000 public safety agencies in 11 countries. Its integration into South Dakotas 911 infrastructure represents a major step forward in delivering smarter, faster emergency services across the state.
South Dakota State 911 Coordination is an agency of the Department of Public Safety.
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