First responders are the people who are called when you call 911. When something goes wrong, they are there to fix it or help you deal with your problem in any way that they can. Whether the emergency is due to a medical condition, an accident, violent crime, or anything else that requires emergency assistance, first responders are ready to handle it.
Technology has played an increasingly important role in the lives of first responders. It’s only natural that these professionals would need to use technology more and more as they go about their jobs. But what types of technology do first responders use? And how does this help them on the job? Find out here!
Vehicle-mounted and mobile computers
When you think of first responders, you might imagine them riding around in ambulances and fire trucks. Even though they do use both of these types of vehicles, most first responders also rely on laptops and tablets to communicate and get important information. These mobile or vehicle-mounted computers help first responders stay connected even when they’re away from the station or fire house. They’re safe and secure, and they can even be used in the event of a power outage or natural disaster that causes widespread gridlock on the roads.
Chest seal from rescue essentials
Another life-saving product that first responders use is a chest seal. If someone has a serious emergency, an emergency chest seal can help them out by stopping the flow of blood from a life-threatening puncture wound to the chest. The device is easy for both paramedics and patients to use, and it’s safe enough to leave on the skin even if it’s covered in dirt or blood.
First responders also rely on products that protect them from many of the elements, including water and oxygen. A high-quality under-eye moisture mask is a great option for keeping first responders’ skin healthy while they work, especially when there are fires or car accidents involved. It can be difficult for these individuals to protect themselves from the elements while they’re on the job, but they must do everything they can to stay healthy while helping others.
GPS and location tech
Emergency personnel also rely on GPS and location technology when they are in the field. For example, if a first responder is treating an accident victim or rescuing someone from their home during a fire or flood, they need to know where other nearby available responders are so that team members can be quickly assembled for assistance. Location tracking ensures that information can be shared quickly and personnel will know where to go when they are dispatched.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning
First responders use AI programs to gather data quickly and reduce the time it takes to respond to an emergency call. These programmes can analyse crime statistics, current weather patterns, and crowdsourced information about traffic conditions in the area of the incident, so that first responders know what they’re getting into before they even get there. This helps them ensure everyone’s safety and reduces response times so that help can arrive more quickly if things do go wrong.
Predictive analytics and machine learning are other types of technology first responders use to gather information on crime and emergencies. These technologies collect big data from lots of different sources, including social media, to provide new insights into patterns and trends that could lead to emergencies elsewhere.
Technology is an important part of any first responder’s job. These professionals use it to gather information quickly so they can provide needed assistance when you call 911 or in the event of a natural disaster that leaves roads gridlocked with traffic.
Robert Haynes did his degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in mental health and well-being.