Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is becoming a critical part of emergency communications, Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), and field response. From routing a 9-1-1 call to providing responders with accurate addresses, efficient routes, and other critical information, location data plays an important role in every stage of an emergency response. Yet many public safety professionals have had little opportunity to learn how GIS works or why the data impacts their daily operations.

This introductory session provides an overview of GIS for first responders and PSAP personnel. Participants will learn how locally authoritative GIS data supports 9-1-1, CAD, mapping, location accuracy, and responder situational awareness in both 911 and NG911 environments. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of the GIS information behind their CAD and mapping systems and why GIS data is critical to emergency response systems.