NextGen 9-1-1

NextGen 9-1-1 stands for Next Generation 9-1-1 (abbreviated NG9-1-1 or NG911). It is an initiative aimed at updating the 9-1-1 service infrastructure in the United States and Canada to improve public emergency communications services in a wireless mobile society. In addition to 9-1-1 voice capabilities, NG911 intends to enable the public to transmit text, images, video and data to the 9-1-1 center.

NG911 Benefits

System interoperability
Improved response times and location data
Data sharing between Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs)
Improved redundancy and reliability (with virtual PSAPs)
Greater visibility within emergency incidents: video from public-safety systems, video and images from citizenry, and texts to and from citizenry
Better service to citizens - particularly the deaf and hearing impaired community

NG911 Challenges

Adequate funding mechanism for system maintenance particularly for smaller PSAPs or dispatch centers
Increased cost during initial implementation
Up to date and relevant 9-1-1 legislation
Training and Standards
Statewide governance, coordination, and planning
Increased cyber security threats

U.S. DHS Office of Emergency Communications NG911 Workshop

The Wisconsin State Interoperability Council (IC) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Emergency Communications (OEC) co-hosted a series of four (4) workshops across Wisconsin on NG911. These workshops were intended to help our public safety community, local government representatives, and elected officials understand the technical, financial, and strategic issues associated with this emerging technology.

Workshop Materials: