Livingston is the first Michigan County to introduce the use of Eagle Eye 911 emergency security camera sharing.
Community members in Livingston County have deployed new technology that transforms their standard security cameras into a vital resource for 911 Emergency Service Communications Centre telecommunications.
CEO of Eagle Eye Networks, Dean Drako expressed his view: “Livingston County is a prime example of a growing trend we’re seeing in the US where entire communities, schools, businesses, public safety officials and community leaders are working together to ensure they are prepared as possible emergency situations.”
Eagle Eye Camera Sharing and RapidSOS
911 telecommunicators typically cannot access emergency security cameras when in a crisis, which can delay response times due to uncertainty of the severity of the situation occurring.
The introduction of the Eagle Eye 911 Camera Sharing allows emergency telecommunicators instant access to live video from one or multiple security cameras when a 911 triggered emergency occurs.
The cameras work through a partnership with RapidSOS to deliver aid quickly.
Livingston’s County Sheriff, Mike Murphy comments on the issue: “It’s all about response time.
“They key to saving lives, curtailing damage and rapidly resolving an emergency of any kind of situation – whether it’s a natural disaster, fire, mass shooting or other criminal activity.”
Benefits of the camera
Emergency call handlers generally rely on verbal communications to understand the situation and severity of an incident. With the introduction of camera sharing, the call handlers can also have eyes on the scene within seconds.
This will give them a greater insight into the incident and allow them to gather an immense amount of information.
Kecia Williams, A 911 Director from Livingston County commented: “Lots of times it takes a while to attain pertinent information from a 911 caller because they are distraught or not clear.
“With camera sharing, we can instantly see for ourselves what’s going on and we can get this information to the fire department, EMS or law enforcement much quicker.”
The first roll out
Livingston County is the first county in Michigan to trial the new technology at the Livingston Educational Service Agency in Howell.
This organisation works with local school districts to provide educational services and support to 26,000 students throughout the county.
Michael Hubert, Superintendent of Livingston Educational Service Agency stated: “I am impressed with the Camera Sharing technology and can see the potential for improving response times by first responders to critical events in our community.”
“Camera sharing can significantly improve the outcome of emergencies”
“Most businesses and schools already have security cameras that can easily be connected to Eagle Eye 911 Camera Sharing, which is the first of its kind technology that has cybersecurity and privacy protections built in,” said Joe Bommarito from Elite Fire and Safety.
“As a former law enforcement officer, I believe camera sharing can significantly improve the outcome of emergencies and improve safety and security for first responders.”
