Benefits of Real-Time Text : The Upgrade to Next Generation 9-1-1
Resources
3 minute read
Ever feel like text messages take a while to send? Have you ever typed a message, but forgot to hit send? In an emergency, the wait time or forgetting to push send could be fatal. The upgrade to next generation 9-1-1 has a solution – real-time text (RTT).
RTT is a communication technology that allows text messages to be sent immediately. Through the IP-based technology on a network that supports RTT, recipients can read text messages as they are being written. RTT has the same conversational directness and interactivity as a voice call. As you learn more about the upgrade to next generation 9-1-1, let’s take a step further and consider the benefits of real-time text.
Some of the greatest benefits RTT will provide are for the hearing impaired. As RTT replaces TTY (teletypewriters) there will no longer be a need to purchase expensive specialized devices as it uses the same ten-digit numbers used to make a phone call. In addition, the caller and telecommunicator can send and receive texts in real time without having to take turns, making conversations more fluid and efficient. Compared to TTY, RTT is more reliable over IP networks, which will result in clear communication and fewer dropped calls. Additionally, RTT provides callers with more typing characters, including multiple language alphabets, emojis, and more. Lastly, and one of the most significant advantages of RTT in the upgrade to next generation 9-1-1, is it allows for both text and voice communication interchangeably within the same call.
Think about all the information you can quickly share via text that could be helpful to first responders, and if they got that information in real time it would benefit them even more. Information like specific location, medical conditions, crime scene information, etc can be shared right away. Ths includes real-time multimedia sharing like photos and videos. First responders can see the crime scene as events are unfolding.
In addition to first responders getting the information fast, the upgrade to next generation 9-1-1 and RTT reduces response times. When a caller sends an RTT message, the message is immediately displayed on the dispatcher’s screen, eliminating the need for the dispatcher to transcribe the usual phone call. This saves valuable time relaying the information to first responders, allowing them to arrive at the scene more quickly and potentially saving lives.
The upgrade to next generation 9-1-1 and RTT can also benefit non-native speakers who may struggle to communicate in English. These text messages can be translated into the caller’s preferred language, making it easier and quicker for them to convey important information to emergency services.
RTT capability is also designed to be interoperable with other services. Therefore, RTT messages can be shared across different emergency services. Including; law enforcement, fire and rescue, emergency medical services, emergency management, and public works. Thus, making it easier to coordinate responses to large-scale emergencies.
RTT technology enhances accessibility to emergency response, improves safety, enables faster response times, provides a lifeline to individuals in need, and is designed to be interoperable. As more emergency services adopt RTT in NG9-1-1, we can expect to see improved outcomes in emergency situations. Contact our experts today to learn more about RTT and your upgrade to NG9-1-1.