ATLANTA (CBS ATLANTA) -
The city of Atlanta has invested $151,000 in two software systems designed to improve the way it communicates with citizens during emergency situations.
The Smart911 and Everbridge emergency and incident notification systems will allow dispatchers to get information from callers that will help emergency responders. The systems will also allow the police department to send automated public safety alerts via phone calls, emails and texts.
"This will allow a public safety person to make a circle on a map or pick a specific street surrounding a disaster and give citizens real time information on what they should specifically do at that moment," said Everbridge spokesperson Patrick Stuver.
A city of Atlanta resident has the option to give the Atlanta Police Department information like the number of people who live in their home and their names, ages, allergies and medical information.
"You can put in any special health needs that you have. For example, if you're on an oxygen tank, that's something that's going to be important for first responders to know. If you have any specific rescue needs, or maybe there's specific equipment that's required, or additional personnel that's required for your rescue. That's something that without Smart911 first responders don't know until they arrive," said Smart911 spokesperson Todd Miller.
A resident can also give information about the layout of their home and whether or not they have pets.
Atlanta Fire and Rescue Department Chief Kelvin Cochran said that the extra information would be invaluable because it would allow emergency responders to be more effective when every second counts.
The new public safety software will cost the city $151,000 a year, but they believe it's worth every penny if it helps to save lives.
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