Why Do We Need To Have "Enhanced" 911 Services Instead Of "Basic" 911 Services?

The voters of the State Washington, through referendum, mandated that all counties implement enhanced 911 service by 12/31/98. An enhanced system includes the Automatic Location Identification (ALI) in addition to the Automatic Number Identification (ALI) portion of the system, which means that the address the call originates from, and other data, will also appear on the call-taker's screen. When you call 911, information will appear on the screen in the E-911 Center showing you name, address, telephone number; the appropriate EMS, Fire, and Law Enforcement Districts to be dispatched to your call. Other pertinent information can also be noted at your request, such as where a key is hidden, where flamables are stored in case you have a fire; a medical condition such as a previous heart attack or a diabetic in the home, so the dispatcher can notify the responding agency and the crew can be prepared to handle the situation. That type of additional information is up to you to provide, if you so choose. Even if you are unable to communicate with the call-taker, due to a language barrier or a physical condition, or if you are unable to speak because you may be overheard by a prowler, or if a child calls and can't communicate, the call-taker will know where the call is coming from and will be able to dispatch assistance to you. With "basic" 911 services the call-taker does not have any of this critical information, only the telephone number you are calling from. Thus, with enhanced 911, you will receive the most expeditious dispatch service.