In a recent DeKalb County ERPS Committee meeting held on June 26, 2025, officials provided an update on the significant upgrade to the county's 911 emergency response system. This upgrade, known as the Next Generation 911 (NG911) phone system, is designed to enhance public safety communications and improve response times during emergencies.

The NG911 system consists of two main components: the Emergency Services Internet (EsiNet) and an advanced answering platform. EsiNet establishes a dedicated network for public safety, allowing for faster data transmission and improved scalability. This means that in the event of a large-scale emergency, calls can be seamlessly transferred between different 911 centers, such as those in Atlanta or Cobb County, ensuring that citizens receive timely assistance regardless of location.

The answering platform introduces several innovative features aimed at streamlining call processing. One notable feature is the ability to send and receive images and videos, which can be shared with first responders to enhance situational awareness. Additionally, the system includes administrative triage capabilities, which help reduce the volume of non-emergency calls reaching 911 operators. For example, callers seeking information about animal control or court dates can be directed to automated responses, freeing up operators to handle genuine emergencies.

Emergency triage is another critical feature that addresses call volume spikes during incidents. If multiple calls come in regarding the same emergency, the system can inform callers that their concern has already been reported and ask if they still need to speak with an operator. This helps manage the flow of calls and ensures that operators can focus on urgent situations.

The meeting also highlighted the system's advanced location accuracy and translation services, which are crucial for effectively routing calls and assisting non-English speakers. The system is designed to learn and adapt, improving its performance over time as it processes more calls.

As of the meeting, the implementation of the NG911 system is progressing well, with 50% of the necessary equipment already installed in the communication center. Officials reported a 95% match rate for Geographic Information System (GIS) data, with plans to reach the target of 98% soon. The upgrade aims to ensure that DeKalb County can maintain high-quality emergency services, even in the face of potential relocations or other challenges.

Overall, the advancements in DeKalb County's 911 system represent a significant step forward in public safety technology, promising to enhance emergency response capabilities and improve service delivery to the community. As the project continues, residents can expect a more efficient and effective emergency response system in the near future.