West Sussex fire service invests in live streaming tech for 999 calls
It'll help call handlers get teams to the scene of blazes more quickly
From Saturday, those calling West Sussex firefighters on 999 will be be offered the opportunity to contribute a live video stream to the emergency control centre.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue is launching Capita’s 999eye software at the county's joint base with the Surrey service.
Upon calling 999, callers are now asked if they want to provide a live video stream of the scene using their smartphone. If agreed, the control room operator will then send a text message with a secure, one-time-use link that opens a live stream direct from the smartphone to the control room.
The software not only enables callers to live stream videos directly to control room operators, it also sends the callers GPS coordinates enabling them to pinpoint their exact location.
Multiple users can view the 999eye live streams, if required, including control room supervisors, senior officers and the responding crew attending the scene.
The software will enable operators to assess the severity of an incident far quicker to ensure the most appropriate response is mobilised.
As West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service are mobilised from the Surrey’s Joint Fire Control, both services will be able to utilise 999eye.
The service will also take emergency calls for East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service in September.
Paul Eggleton, Managing Director of Capita Secure Solutions and Services, said:
“It’s great news for the people of Surrey and West Sussex that their fire and rescue services will go live with our game-changing location-finding and video-streaming software. 999eye is an example of digital innovation working hand-in-hand with local fire and rescue personnel to facilitate the quickest and safest response possible in the event of an emergency.”
Jon Lacey, Assistant Chief Officer at West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, said:
“We have been working with Surrey Fire and Rescue Service for over a year now as a joint mobilising solution serving our communities. The implementation of this new live-streaming feature in our control room is another example of the benefits of working together as a joint service.”
No app is required and no other data is taken from or stored on the caller’s phone.