Anatomy of a Response: Volunteers Responding

Going along with the theme of modern technology in the fire service, volunteer fire departments across the county are using a system, called “IamResponding”.  The system is used by volunteers to alert the crew if they are responding to a call, or not.  It’s easy, let me explain.

Once a dispatch is received, volunteers dial a preprogramed number into their phone.  They dial it and it goes straight to a computer system based at the fire house.  This makes sure the correct number of human resources is at a call.  For reference, to fight a fire, you need a minimum of 15 firefighters.  So if less sign on to respond, a crew member can request a re-dispatch or retone to alert all members that additional firefighters are needed.   

While not all departments use this system, it is very popular with volunteer fire departments and will see an increased use across the county.   It is a reliable system that gives a huge benefit to those who use it.   

The above video is the official advertisement for the "IamResponding" product, and gives many examples of how it's used.