How vertical location data enhances responder safety in complex emergencies

NextNav and First Due launch new US-based emergency mapping tool

NextNav has announced a new partnership with software firm First Due aimed at improving responder safety through building-level visibility during emergencies.

According to NextNav, the integration of its vertical location and 3D wireframe visualisation technology into First Due’s incident management platform allows commanders to identify the exact floor and location of responders inside multi-storey buildings.

The company said the new system supports real-time personnel tracking and aims to improve operational decision-making for fire and EMS agencies.

This launch is specific to the United States and forms part of what NextNav described as a broader shift toward enhanced digital situational awareness tools for public safety services.

First Due stated that the system is now available as part of its incident command and response solution.

Integration provides building-specific responder positioning

NextNav stated that its z-axis and visualisation tools will be fully embedded into First Due’s platform.

It explained that incident commanders using the platform will be able to view responder positions within a 3D wireframe representation of buildings, rather than only on traditional 2D maps.

This capability is intended to support operations in high-rise or complex structures where accurate location data is critical for personnel accountability.

The company added that this function could help reduce confusion during emergencies and support safer tactical coordination.

According to NextNav, the visualisation builds on the firm’s licensed low-band spectrum technology, which enables its vertical location tracking features.

It also said the move aligns with future developments in 9-1-1 call centre infrastructure across the US.

First Due highlights improved command decision-making

First Due Co-founder and CEO Andreas Huber said the tool supports better outcomes in urban incidents.

Huber said: “We’re focused on ensuring First Due delivers real impact when it matters most. With the ability to visualize personnel not just on a 2D map but within a 3D model of a structure, incident commanders gain powerful situational awareness in the moments that count.”

He added: “We’re proud to continue our partnership with NextNav and further develop solutions that aim to improve operational outcomes during the most complex urban responses.”

The company noted that this visual data gives teams a direct overview of where responders are located, helping to coordinate actions during dynamic emergency conditions.

It stated that this functionality is especially relevant for city-based departments where multi-storey buildings and high population density create additional response challenges.

First Due said the partnership builds on an existing collaboration between the two companies.

NextNav signals future expansion into emergency communications

Rob Clark, Senior Director of Public Safety at NextNav, commented on the broader implications of the rollout.

Clark said: “NextNav is excited to bring its accurate z-axis location and 3D visualization services to First Due’s application ecosystem. This partnership gives first responders and command staff a clearer picture of what’s happening inside buildings during an emergency.”

He added: “This rollout marks a major milestone in bringing advanced actionable data into real-world emergency response — and sets the stage for similar upgrades at 9-1-1 call centers across the country.”

The company said it is positioning its technology as a critical upgrade for emergency services transitioning to digital command tools.

NextNav noted that its technology was built to support precision during complex operations and aims to serve both public safety teams and emergency communication centres.

Z-axis location forms part of PNT technology expansion

NextNav said the partnership reflects its broader strategy to expand positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) services across emergency sectors.

The company explained that its low-band licensed spectrum enables accurate 3D positioning in environments where GPS data may be limited or obstructed.

It said this includes high-rise buildings, underground areas and other urban settings where traditional tracking tools can become unreliable.

The technology was described by NextNav as applicable to both critical infrastructure and commercial safety use cases.

NextNav added that it intends to grow its PNT ecosystem with further partnerships in public safety and beyond.

How vertical location data enhances responder safety in complex emergencies: Summary

NextNav has partnered with First Due to integrate 3D building-level tracking into emergency command software.

The technology allows incident commanders to see the vertical location of personnel inside multi-storey buildings.

This system is designed to support real-time responder accountability and safer tactical decisions during complex emergencies.

According to NextNav, the integration uses its z-axis and wireframe visualisation tools.

The feature is embedded in First Due’s incident command and response platform.

First Due CEO Andreas Huber said the update improves situational awareness in critical moments.

Rob Clark of NextNav said the rollout is a milestone for real-world responder visibility.

The companies confirmed that the platform is available in the United States.