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911 FaceTime: New tool lets dispatchers access your phone’s camera

The technology establishes a link and allows dispatchers to remain connected to callers and provide more detailed and in-depth assistance

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The technology allows dispatchers to be available during the duration of the call, giving them the opportunity to provide additional and more complex assistance.

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By News Staff

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ga. — A new tool allows 911 dispatchers to access cell phone cameras and provide assistance and gather critical information.

WSB-TV 2 reported that the technology allows dispatchers to be available during the duration of the call, giving them the opportunity to provide additional and more complex assistance.

“It’s like FaceTime, the dispatcher is able to send a link,” Douglas County Communications Director Rick Martin said.

The technology, developed by Israeli-based company Carbyne 911, is spreading, according to Chad Labree.

“In Mexico, a lady was delivering a baby, lost cellphone connection and that video was able to assist the dispatcher and give them instructions to successfully deliver the baby,” he said.

A former 911 dispatcher, Labree joined the tech company because he felt strongly about the good it can do.

“It needed to happen,” he said. “This technology must happen.”

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