| Abstract: |
Historically, Mashpee Fire & Rescue has managed pre-incident management plans manually and kept them in paper or spreadsheet form in very large loose leaf binders in its apparatus, filed away in file cabinets or on local computers at Fire Headquarters. This method of record management, while thorough, did not allow easy responder access to important information such as construction type, roof collapse hazards or on-site storage of hazardous materials. Navigation was added by way of a departmental developed paper street finder. After a long search, Mashpee settled on an ESRI based GIS enabled, interactive mobile solution that allows several benefits not previously available. While this program is extensive and well received, there have been significant hurdles including technology problems, end-user learning curves, culture changes and extensive updating requirements. This presentation will cover our entire process from identifying the need to the realization of the time, money and expertise required to run such a system. |