New 999 call handling platform enhances emergency response

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) has launched a new 999 call handling and mobilisation system.

This system, which became operational on 10 October at 10:00, was developed over 16 months and aims to improve the Service’s ability to respond to emergency calls across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland.

The system, provided by Motorola Solutions, allows for faster and more accurate resource dispatch.

Within seven minutes of its activation, LFRS successfully managed its first 999 call using the new system.

Chief Fire and Rescue Officer Callum Faint said: “This marks a significant milestone for Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service.

These systems are arguably the most critical to any emergency service, as even the smallest error could have significant consequences for our community.”

Motorola Solutions partners with LFRS

Motorola Solutions has been instrumental in delivering the new system.

Fergus Mayne, UK and Ireland country manager at Motorola Solutions, emphasised the system’s role in enhancing communication and collaboration, particularly in high-pressure situations.

He said: “When every second counts, the centralised control room for Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service will enable greater operational efficiency and more effective emergency response.”

The system aligns with the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles (JESIP) framework, improving coordination with partner agencies.

This enhances LFRS’s capability to work with other emergency services during critical incidents.

Real-time data collection improves situational awareness

The new system is designed to gather real-time data, improving the situational awareness of control room operators.

It enables faster decision-making during emergencies, allowing for better coordination of resources.

The system also includes a VideoManager feature that securely stores and manages data.

This function is especially useful when multiple incidents occur simultaneously, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration between services.

Chief Fire and Rescue Officer Faint noted: “Our Control Room is the backbone of our emergency response operations.

“The ability to gather critical information quickly and relay it to our teams on the ground is essential for safeguarding both the public and our crews.”

Future of emergency response with advanced technology

The successful launch of the new call handling and mobilisation system reflects LFRS’s commitment to improving its emergency response capabilities.

The system provides better coordination during emergency situations, allowing for a more efficient flow of information between control rooms and operational crews on the ground.

Its design supports the Service’s goal of achieving ‘Safer People, Safer Places’ in the regions it serves.

The project was delivered on a tight schedule, and Chief Faint expressed gratitude to everyone involved, recognising their solution-focused approach.

He said: “The switch has been a complete success so far and a positive step forward for us and our purpose of ‘Safer People, Safer Places.’”

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue introduces advanced 999 call handling platform: Summary

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) has introduced a new 999 call handling and mobilisation system, which went live on 10 October 2024.

Supplied by Motorola Solutions, the system enhances LFRS’s ability to handle emergency calls and dispatch resources efficiently across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland.

The system was developed over 16 months and integrates real-time data collection and video management features, improving situational awareness and collaboration with partner agencies.

It aligns with the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles (JESIP) framework to ensure smooth coordination during high-demand periods.

Chief Fire and Rescue Officer Callum Faint praised the system as a crucial component of the Service’s emergency response operations.