Hillsborough County is set to enhance its emergency response system by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its 911 dispatch operations, allowing for improved communication and efficiency during emergencies.
TAMPA, Fla. — When you dial 911 in Hillsborough County, dispatchers will now use AI technology to facilitate video and photo sharing, as well as providing translation assistance during emergencies.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced on Monday that its 911 dispatch center will implement Prepared, an AI-driven platform designed to enhance call-taking efficiency and overall response coordination.
“Prepared strengthens the bond between our community and the deputies who are there to help,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The real-time visibility it provides enables our teams to make informed decisions in critical situations, improving outcomes for those in need while also ensuring safety for our deputies as they arrive on scene.”
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) explains that the new platform will first ask 911 callers for consent to securely share live video or images with dispatchers. This allows dispatchers to review and document the information in real time, forwarding it to deputies responding to the incident. The system also transcribes the call instantly and generates an AI-created summary.
Prepared also features a one-on-one text messaging option with callers, using pre-approved messages. This includes links to reporting tools, resources for natural disasters, and requests for photos to assist in ongoing investigations. HCSO notes that shared media can be utilized as evidence following established public records protocols.
Furthermore, HCSO mentions that Prepared enhances language accessibility through automatic language detection and an AI-supported Spanish translation feature.
“When someone contacts 911, they are often facing one of the most challenging moments of their life. We must respond with clarity, speed, and precision,” Chronister stated. “The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is dedicated to adapting with the times, and leveraging emerging technology plays a vital role in how we serve our community.”
In February, HCSO began using Axon Draft One, an AI tool designed to assist deputies in drafting reports, allowing them to focus more on policing rather than administrative tasks.
Earlier this year, the Tampa Police Department also introduced a similar tool, allowing dispatchers to text callers for permission to access their cellphone camera and view the situation in real time.
The integration of AI into Hillsborough County’s 911 dispatch services is set to revolutionize how emergencies are managed, ultimately enhancing safety and communication in critical moments. By leveraging technology, the Sheriff’s Office aims to meet the evolving needs of the community and ensure a swift response during emergencies.
