Dev Pro Journal
First responders need your expertise to match solutions with the use case and help them perform their jobs more efficiently.
Improved communication between police, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and dispatchers is critical for public safety. Mobile solutions can deliver the data first responders need to make better decisions and the ability to stay in constant communication with their departments.
However, each use case has unique requirements. Solutions providers must begin each project by clearly defining how first responders will use mobile devices and the solutions that are the best fit for their applications.
Evaluating solutions on the market to learn the benefits of each and determining how to add value will help you rise above your competition by solving public safety pain points.
Vehicle-Mounted Tablets
When emergency responders answer a call, they rarely, if ever, have enough time to plan and then brief everyone involved about the location, what they will find when they get there, maps, and other relevant information. Equipping emergency response teams with vehicle-mounted tablets is an excellent way for emergency responders to access critical information in the field. These tablets can access maps of the area, the locations of other emergency response assets, building layouts, and other vital information.
Vehicle-mounted tablets suited for use in emergency response have I/O ports specially designed for vehicles. They are fitted with ruggedised casing to ensure vibrations won’t damage the electronics and protects the tables from dust, smoke, and other environmental threats. The vehicles are then fitted with antennas and docking stations to be fully functional even in remote locations.
Handheld Computers
Police, firefighters, and EMTs can’t do everything from inside their vehicles. Having a mobile computer they can carry gives them instant access to critical information even when they leave their vehicles. Their team members can communicate potential danger without lapse, giving responders more time to react. First responders triaging patients at an accident scene can communicate better with emergency room staff to ensure that all necessary personnel and staff are standing by when the ambulance arrives.
Implementing systems that use these devices can also help combat attrition. Many departments see new employees become frustrated with out-of-date technology. Providing them with modern tools that help them do their jobs more effectively increases their confidence and satisfaction with their work, helping to build strong teams of first responders.
Mobile computers must be designed for public safety use. Look for rugged devices, able to withstand temperature extremes, shocks or drops, and security hardened. They should also be easy to use outdoors, with bright screens and touchscreens that work with gloved hands.
Wearable Computers
Police, firefighters, and other first responders need both hands free to perform their duties. In these situations, carrying a tablet or mobile computer isn’t an option. However, wearable computers provide value.
Like other mobile form factors, a wearable computer allows responders to access vital information and communicate quickly with team members, but it doesn’t take time or focus away from first responders’ primary tasks.
IoT Solutions
The Internet of Things (IoT) enables devices or sensors to communicate data with a network. The types of data that IoT collects can vary, from temperature, humidity, location, presence of toxic chemicals, or other information that can save first responders’ lives. IoT sensors used with wearable computers or incorporated into uniforms or equipment can help them make smarter decisions during a crisis response or alert commanders that they’re in danger.
Help Your Clients Get Mobility Right
Mobile computers aren’t new to public safety. However, many first responders struggle with solutions that don’t fit the job well. Solutions providers that advise their clients and help them implement the optimal solutions will build strong relationships that help their businesses grow. Start a conversation about gaps and workarounds that are standing in the way of smooth processes and help your clients find the solutions they need.