Summerville launches 911 program to help mobile callers in real-time

SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCBD) – The Summerville Emergency Communications Center is launching a new 911 technology to assist mobile callers in real-time.

According to officials, Prepared Assist is a platform that enables the 911 dispatch center to live stream, text and translate texts (in 140+ languages) from mobile callers in real-time.

The Summerville Emergency Communications Center says the platform will significantly improve its ability to effectively and efficiently respond to emergencies in the community. Prepared Assist was built by the company Prepared.

“Prepared Assist will remove any language hurdles with real-time translation, enabling the community to provide responders access to live footage of their emergency while increasing their understanding of the situation for better outcomes,” says Douglas Wright, Summerville Chief of Police. “This technology is a game-changing service for 911 callers and their connectivity with our emergency communications center.”

Officials say participation in video during a call is completely voluntary and the caller’s consent is required. If the caller consents, they will receive a live stream link via text from the dispatcher, enabling them to activate live video with one click.

Texting can begin once the dispatcher sends a text and any text sent in reply can automatically be translated if it is one of the 140+ languages the platform can process, authorities say.

“It’s important to note that the video call and text functions do not provide Summerville Emergency Communications with access to the contents or settings of a caller’s phone,” said the press release.

The Summerville Emergency Communications Center says the launch follows six weeks of preparation and training to ensure its dispatchers and team can properly utilize the platform.

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