For 9News, Denver’s local NBC affiliate, Nate Lynn reports on a new program that is making 911 more interactive in cities across the country. 911 call centers are now sending text messages and emails to provide up-to-date information to callers about:
- A first responder’s whereabouts. For example, if they are running late or got pulled onto another call;
- Case numbers, so that victims can more easily follow up with the police or to file an insurance claim; and
- Updates on the investigation, whether an arrest has been made or if the case has been closed, for example.
Denver Chief of Police Ron Thomas explained to the news station that the new program is similar to the “alerts about the shipping or delivery of items you purchased from an online retailer” to help the city “improve communication and service for residents.” 911 call centers in cities like Madison, Wisconsin, Bakersfield, California, Battle Creek, Michigan, and Salt Lake City, Utah have also upgraded to the innovative messaging platform. Check out this Salt Lake City flowchart to see how the new system works:
