NG9-1-1 Communication Tools for Individuals With DisabilitiesJOSHUA HOWELL, ENPCITY OF GRAND RAPIDS COMMUNICATIONS CENTER (MI)

Welcome•This session provides attendees an overview of the communication tools within the NG9-1-1 system that can be used by callers with disabilities. This includes video, text, and voice in traditional and multimedia methodologies and conferencing features that facilitate third-party calling.

Background• The communications modalities workgroup is a sub group of the Accessibility Committee. • The spreadsheet was created with the intention of outlining the different modes which disabled persons could use to connect to 9-1-1 either directly or in- directly.

How It Begins Results from the nationwide survey developed by FCC Emergency Access Advisory Committee (EAAC) in 2011 showed various communication preferences from people with disabilities on what/how it would help them to call & to communicate effectively with telecommunicators. http://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/emergency-access-advisory-committee-eaac

Deliverables • Input on which technologies to be added or

revised in the document• Overview of communications modalities in

use and communications infrastructure used• Chart to be used as a guide for 9-1-1 telecommunicators and personnel, engineers, and others

Discussion • What changes should be made to make the document more user friendly?• Have any communications modalities and network systems been overlooked?• Is maintaining this document as technologies change of value to PSAPs and vendors?

Discussion

• Does the spreadsheet have value?• What would you like to see as part of the spread sheet?

Discussion

•Open discussion

Thank you

•Thank you for attending.