There’s a new kind of emergency app available, and it can provide valuable information to emergency responders when fractions of a moment can make a difference.
What you need to know
When an account is created, you are prompted to provide the names of residents, address, information on medical or mental health, photos of your property, and other information such as pets including service animals. Provide as much or as little information you want responders to know. When 911 is contacted your information is immediately available to help responders prepare for what may unfold.
In the event of a widespread emergency or event, emergency managers and 911 staff can also use information to help identify residents, their needs, and communicate with them. Other features such as enhanced location data, two-way texting or chat, and live video streaming may also be available.
Are services provided in your area?
Smart911 is NOT available in all communities; however, those with an account can receive the benefits when traveling where it is provided. Depending on the area, services provided may include sharing the profile you provide, receiving alerts and notifications (weather, traffic, other), and information to support evacuations.
Enter your zip code at Smart911 to access information for your area. As an example, entering 55068 the following message appeared.
Considerations for nonprofit and residential care service providers
- Should you provide highly accurate details including floor plans, the location of fire protection equipment and utility shutoffs or AEDs and the names of key staff and job titles?
- Compliance with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other laws.
- Are individuals served living independently or vulnerable adults?
- What guardianships apply? Are guardians supportive?
- What members of an individual’s health care team should be consulted?
- How frequently do residents at a particular address change?
- Does your community have a 911-dispatched Behavioral Crisis Response Team?
- Are there hazardous chemicals or weapons on site or restricted access to some areas?
- What is the role of first responders in your community? Is it limited to stabilizing people in crisis and transporting them to emergency rooms? Is paramedicine included, connecting people with nonemergency needs to primary care and other supports?
- What emergency response plans or activities are currently in place? Have you had discussions with, conducted drills, and/or performed table talks with public safety officers including law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services, and/or others? Do they understand the needs of your residents?
- Where can SMART911 be reflected in your emergency response and safety plans?
- Do you, your staff, or the people you serve travel in or through Smart911 service areas for medical, recreational, or other purposes?
- How will you keep account information up to date?
- Identify and evaluate the pros and cons with support from legal counsel experienced and knowledgeable in the services you perform.
Where can I get more information or see a demonstration?
The Rave 911 Suite for First Responders and Emergency Managers (ravemobilesafety.com).
To sign up, go to Smart911.