Emergency response times are dropping following the Sept. 11 launch of the territory’s new 911 computer-aided dispatch system, government claimed at a recent demonstration hosted by the Ministry of Health and Social Development.
During the demonstration, 911 and Emergency Operations Centre Director Russell Jones told senior officials that the new system improves coordination between fire, police and medical services, according to government.
The system’s launch followed hands-on training sessions for emergency responders at the centre last month.
Demonstration attendees included Governor Daniel Pruce, HSD Minister Vincent Wheatley, and acting Police Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool.
They heard that the system integrates real-time GPS tracking, digital mapping, and access to location data through the Town and Country Planning Department’s GIS database. It also allows for instant communication across emergency services to ensure a unified response.
“The launch of this new 911 system marks a significant advancement in how we protect and serve the people of the Virgin Islands,” Mr. Wheatley said. “It gives our emergency teams the tools they need to respond faster, coordinate better and ultimately save more lives. This is a powerful example of innovation at work in the public sector, and I am proud of the progress made by our dedicated emergency services teams.”
Mr. Jones added that the demonstration was an opportunity to showcase the system’s impact, according to government.
“It was important for our leaders to see how the system works in real time,” he said. “This technology represents a new era of emergency response in the Virgin Islands — one where accuracy, communication and speed are central to saving lives.
British Caribbean News
