9–1–1 cell phone callers can provide location
There are a multitude of TV news and radio stories about 9–1–1 systems not being able to locate cell phone callers. That reality is far too difficult to solve in the short-term and to rely on cell tower triangulation only is a plan to fail.
What can be done right now, today, this minute? Ans. 9–1–1 callers need to use a simple, free, browser application: USNGAPP.ORG
USNGAPP.ORG automatically geo-locates the user of a GPS enabled smart phone to a 33' x 33' square, quickly. The full, world-wide location can be identified in just thirteen(13) characters. In many cases, for local use, only the blue letters would be needed. The coordinate system employed was designated as the land search & rescue coordinate system in 2011; it is US NATIONAL GRID.
It can be used in two major ways;
- When geo-location is confirmed to be an issue, the Public Service Answering Point (PSAP) call taker can ask the caller if they have a smart phone, and then to open USNGAPP.ORG in any browser. Yes, the GPS of the device must be ON.
- Or, the caller can be familiar with the application, have it saved to their device at the ready, and just open it and read the coordinates. Obviously, this method is preferred but the stress of a 9–1–1 call situation may make fine motor skills difficult. Another person may have to assist. This can apply to #1 too, of course. The phone can be handed off to another person, etc. Many 911 calls are very long without good results for geolocation; during that time USNGAPPP.ORG can be a quicker solution.
USNGAPP.ORG or rather the data it provides, is the most succinct standard method to report location**. Surely, it can be used in combination with known area landmarks, street names, postal address, etc. if known. USNGAPP.ORG will function without Internet connectivity as long as it has been used on the device once. Thus, a strong recommendation is to open it on your smartphone now!
PSAPs need to be able to receive USNG data and can do so freely with web tools to include by not limited to GMap4 and Mission Manager. PSAP computer-aided dispatch software can also be updated accordingly.
Readers should review the provided links for even more information. This is third article about USNGAPP.ORG
Links:
FEMA Directive 092–5 about USNG
Florida Fire Chief’s Association position statement about USNG
US National Grid research paper
- * Latitude & Longitude, though seemingly familiar to all, it is quite difficult to transmit effectively over the radio or cell phone call and has multiple versions. Use of the wrong version has sent rescue teams tens of miles in the wrong direction. Plus, it is NOT the standard. In contrast, USNG is the standard and has only one format without degrees, decimal, minus, plus, north, south, east & west components.
- Disclaimer: GPS availability within buildings is problematic. Fortunately, USNGAPP.ORG will only display what it knows is valid. It will show red lines through digits that are beyond the accuracy of the device. Over time, the display may change for the better. Try it!!!
