Interns at the Northern Kentucky University’s Center for Applied Informatics (News - Alert) built a new iPhone (News - Alert) app which is capable of mobilizing citizen emergency responses. The app, ‘Fire Department,’ can be used via the iPhone to help strangers in need of emergency 911 services.
In emergency situations, a lack of proper first aid can be fatal as precious time is wasted waiting for first responders, while people nearby could beneficially offer first-aid. It is estimated that the survival rates of people who need ambulance assistance during a heart attack is very low and a properly administered emergency CPR and 911 services could save lives.
The iPhone app is built to prompt whether the smartphone carrier knows CPR and is willing to help a stranger in need. If ‘yes’ is selected the app utilizes the iPhone’s ability to locate the place where the user is. When an emergency occurs nearby and the 911 dispatch is notified, users will receive a message about necessary 911 services needed. The app is also capable of pointing users to an automated external defibrillator (electric paddles that can kickstart a heart) if nearby.
The app supposedly takes the idea of augmented reality applications for locating AEDs further, enabling mobile 911 services and alerting CPR-trained volunteers about those in need.
The project has been spearheaded by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, launching the iPhone app in a ceremony in the San Francisco suburb of San Ramon, Calif., attended by Fire Chief Richard Price, International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) President Jack Parow, Workday CEO Dave Duffield (who also cofounded PeopleSoft), and Tim O’Reilly of O’Reilly Media.
Nathesh is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To read more of Nathesh's articles, please visit his columnist page.
Edited by Jaclyn Allard
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