Traditionally, firefighters and emergency service workers were dispatched to scenes with a minimum of information to go off of, such as location and the general nature of the fire and hazards. The information they did receive was sent via two-way radio on the way to the scene before laptops connected them with more information. But, this data was only available when crews were able to access mobile data terminals.
Today, thanks to mobile app technology, firefighting crews and emergency service workers alike are able to receive adequate information in a timely manner. This kind of technology has continued to develop in recent years, helping firefighters and paramedics be more ready for a scene they are arriving at.
From turn-by-turn directions to fire inspection reports to hazmat warnings, EMS professionals can stay updated with pertinent information to approach a scene with more preparation and knowledge. Here’s a look at how EMS clients can implement a mobile app technology plan to enhance their responses and services.
Implementing a Mobile App Plan
Smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets are quickly becoming critical resources for firefighters and EMTs. To enhance the benefit they get from mobile devices and smart applications, forward-thinking agencies are continuing to put efforts toward implementing mobile app technology in their everyday communications.
Most fire and emergency services are choosing to take a more proactive approach, changing their IT budget to the acquisition of mobile devices and applications for their workers. Creating a multiyear outline for mobile app usage allows fire and emergency services to phase in their transition over the course of a few years, starting out by issuing tablets or smartphones to supervisors and gradually adding new tech capabilities.
Developing a mobile game plan should start by going over what kinds of information and data is being communicated today and by whom, as well as what capabilities can be achieved in the near-term and what long-term goals can be outlined.
Mitigating Risks Through Mobile Apps
Mobile app technology is not only helping emergency crews on the way to a scene. They can also help limit potential risks once crews arrive by providing additional information that may be needed to effectively contain an emergency. At a hazardous material incident, for example, data to identify the substances involved, evacuation zone, and recommended mitigation steps can be accessed on available apps.
After a fire or emergency situation is contained, fire departments can also use mobile apps to report damage, such as damage to critical infrastructure, injuries, deaths, and more.
The Future of Wearables
Mobile app technology isn’t just meant for smartphones and tablets that can be used in the palm of your hand. For firefighters who need to go into a fire, but can spare holding another object in their hands, wearables are the answer.
Wearables, such as smartwatches, have been helping medical professionals stay on top of need-to-know information in hospitals and emergency rooms. Now, wearables are helping firefighters and emergency service workers get up-to-the-minute information.
Wearable mobile app technology offers physiological monitoring, communications, and alerts. Smartwatches can monitor firefighters’ heart rates, movement and location, and hazardous conditions. Wearable technology enables firefighters and emergency service workers to view alerts instantly as well as communicate by voice.
Monitoring the physical locations of firefighters should be the main priority of all emergency service professionals. Utilizing a wearable location-enabled device, firefighters can be tracked on multiple axes and even tracked indoors as they put out a fire.
No matter the device, mobile app technology is helping to cut down on risks on emergency services and provide the information needed to save lives and limit damage.
About Provident Fire Plus
At Provident Fire Plus, we offer custom tailored packages to best protect firefighters and volunteer firefighters. We understand the risks that emergency response teams are subjected to on a daily basis, and have worked to serve these dedicated professionals for over 87 years. For more information about our products and policies, we invite you to contact our experts today at (855) 201-8880.