| Computer-Aided Dispatch(CAD) |
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Modern 911 centers use high end technology to quickly process emergency
calls for service. The Computer Aided Dispatch, or CAD, system is the nexus of the emergency dispatch
process. Calls for emergency services are received by a 911 call taker and keyed into the CAD System. The CAD routes the entry to the appropriate radio dispatch position(s) so that first responders can be dispatched to the scene of an emergency.
The City of Richmond is currently engaged in an exciting project to replace its aging CAD System in
order to continue the automated processing of the receipt of Calls-for-Service from the Public and
the dissemination of those Calls-for-Service to Public Safety First Responders. The new CAD System
will include fully integrated Automatic Vehicle Locator (AVL) technology. The CAD will allow
personnel in the Division of Emergency Communications (DEC) to use an electronic city map to
visually depict the locations within the City where citizens have requested Police, Fire and/or
EMS assistance. DEC personnel will also be able to select a “point” on the map and create
a call-for-service. The map provides dispatch personnel a visual indication of the current
location of all Police and Fire vehicles. The system is capable of selecting the closest First
Responder units to respond to an emergency event. The CAD will be able to share data with other
mission critical systems through replicated interfaces inherent in the present CAD System coupled
with full integration to Police and Fire Records Management Systems (RMS).
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