In a recent government meeting, officials highlighted significant advancements and recognitions within the High Point Police Department's 911 telecommunications center. The meeting showcased the center's commitment to providing professional emergency services, emphasizing its mission to serve citizens and public safety agencies effectively.
One of the standout achievements discussed was the recognition received from the North Carolina Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) for the innovative use of RapidSOS technology during a hostage situation. This advanced mobile application allows telecommunicators to track cellular phone locations with precision, including the ability to access a caller's microphone, screen, and camera. In a recent incident, this technology enabled responders to view a private Facebook live feed of a hostage situation, facilitating effective communication with the police negotiation team and ultimately ensuring a safe resolution without loss of life.
Additionally, the center was reaccredited at the International APCO conference in Orlando, Florida, where it was recognized among 91 telecommunications agencies from the U.S., Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Great Britain. The reaccreditation reflects the high standards of the High Point 911 Basic Telecommunicator Program, an eight-month training initiative for new hires focused on call handling and radio dispatch.
The meeting also reported a successful audit by the North Carolina 911 Board, confirming compliance with state statutes and administrative codes, with no discrepancies found. This underscores the center's operational integrity and commitment to excellence in emergency response.
In terms of call volume, the 911 telecommunications center handled a staggering 221,833 calls in 2023, including 89,707 emergency service calls. Impressively, the center met state standards by answering 92% of emergency calls within ten seconds, exceeding the required benchmark.
The meeting concluded with a video featuring telecommunicators sharing their passion for public service and the sense of fulfillment they derive from their roles, reinforcing the importance of their work in the community.