In July 2021, Intrado and ADT joined forces to deliver alarm data directly to text-enabled 911 centers in a whole new way that doesn’t require a voice call. As this advancement rolls out across the U.S., both 911 telecommunicators and ADT operators are saving critical time in the processing and dispatching of emergency help when and where it’s needed.
Here are answers to some of the most-asked questions about what the Intrado-ADT partnership means for PSAPs and how it will help telecommunicators:
Q: How is the alarm incident data delivered to PSAPs without a voice call?
A: When an ADT alarm is triggered, the request for assistance (RFA) is sent directly to the PSAP’s text-to-911 queue. The RFA already includes additional information such as a precise location and any data about the nature of the emergency.
In many cases, there’s no need for public safety telecommunicators to ask for more detail or manually enter information about the call, saving time for both ADT operators and PSAP staff. The telecommunicator can simply dispatch help to the scene immediately.
Q: How does this process help PSAPs?
A: Time is the most precious commodity of all. Because there’s no need to pick up the phone and pass along details about an alarm, 911 telecommunicators save time and also receive only the most pertinent real-time information about an incident. In most cases, in fact, 911 staff can quickly review the text and simply send it on to dispatch, rather than spend time asking a caller questions to ascertain necessary data.
In some states, 911 funding is based on average call-answer times. A tool that enables telecommunicators to respond to and dispatch requests more quickly and efficiently could enable additional funding that allows PSAPs to hire more staff as well as lightening the workload for existing employees.
Q: Will PSAPs need to make upgrades to software or hardware to receive this data?
A: There’s no need for any changes to your equipment or configurations or upgrades to your network. This Intrado technology taps into PSAPs’ existing workflows and is vendor-agnostic, meaning it works with any CPE—no need for costly or time-consuming integrations or upgrades. It’s available at no cost to any text-enabled PSAP that opts in.
Q: How do PSAPs start receiving data directly from ADT?
A: If you’re ready to improve response times and add the ability to receive ADT alarm call data directly into your PSAP, simply complete the opt-in form. An Intrado representative will contact you to find a time to enable your center; set-up takes about 20 to 30 minutes and service is automatically enabled the first of the month following the month after opting in. You can also reach out to request a demo and get your questions answered.
Q: How is consumers’ data protected?
A: As the country’s largest security company, ADT is tasked with protecting the property of both companies and private citizens; its highest priority is the privacy of its customers’ information. Lockbox technology is used to store all alarm data, and ADT shares data with public safety only through a hyperlink used in a highly controlled environment. If necessary, the link can be shut down instantly.
To learn more about Emergency Data Broker and how Intrado and ADT can help your PSAP send life-saving information to the right responders at the right time, please contact us.