The Rock County Communications Center is now receiving accurate device location data for 9-1-1 calls from iPhones with iOS 12+ and Android phones version 4.0+, as well as additional emergency data from apps like Uber, wearables, connected homes, and connected cars, via the RapidSOS Clearinghouse.
The nation’s 50-year-old legacy 911 infrastructure was designed for landlines and provides almost no data to first responders besides a voice-only connection. Through the RapidSOS Clearinghouse, the Rock County Communications Center is able to access life-saving emergency data from supplemental sources at no cost — including accurate location from iPhones with iOS 12+ and Android phones version 4.0+.
The Rock County Communications Center always seeks to implement 9-1-1 technology tools that will improve emergency response for citizens. Along with RapidSOS the Rock County Communications Center also was one of the first in the state to implement Text-to-911 which has proven invaluable for the deaf and hard of hearing community as well as other citizens who are unable to place a voice call to 911 due to poor cell coverage or other circumstances.
RapidSOS Portal is a completely free solution available with no commitment to every authorized emergency communications center nationwide, providing invaluable information to call-takers and dispatchers as they work to send callers appropriate help quickly. Agencies with RapidSOS Portal can receive access to all data sources available through the RapidSOS Clearinghouse, including Apple, Google, MedicAlert, Uber, and more.
“We are grateful to have another resource that will help us locate 911 cellular callers quicker and more precisely. After just three days of implementing the RapidSOS technology we were able to locate a suicidal person who was moving locations and direct law enforcement to their location so they could be provided the assistance they needed.” said Communications Director, Kathy Sukus
“Rock County Communications Center is leading the way in 9-1-1 technology to improve emergency response,” said RapidSOS CEO, Michael Martin. “We are thrilled to provide Rock County call-takers and dispatchers with the information they need to get citizens help quickly in an emergency, saving lives and property.”
