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Air Force implements iPads into emergency services

Pictured is a view of the display on the iPad that Fairchild’s emergency services will be working with at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., July 3 2013. Places of interest can be pinpointed on the map and the responders will be able to see this on their device. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ryan Zeski/Released)

Air Force implements iPads into emergency services

Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Robison, 92nd Security Forces Squadron flight sergeant, accesses information on an iPad at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., July 3, 2013. The Air Force is currently testing the use of iPads at three bases including Fairchild. The goal is to improve communication between members and help them complete their job more efficiently. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ryan Zeski/Released))

Air Force implements iPads into emergency services

Master Sgt. Jamin Ose, 92nd Security Forces Squadron special project officer, and Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Robison, 92nd SFS flight sergeant, look for alerts on the map made possible with the access to an iPad with the AtHoc application at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., July 3, 2013. AtHoc is an interactive warning system used by the Air Force. Fairchild has been selected as one of three bases to test the use of iPads with our emergency services. Using the AtHoc system with these devices will integrate first responders, police services and the fire department with shared information across the iPads. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ryan Zeski/Released)

Air Force implements iPads into emergency services

Published July 9, 2013
By Airman 1st Class Ryan Zeski
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Fairchild has been selected as one of three bases to test the use of iPads with our emergency services. Using the AtHoc system, an interactive warning system, these devices will integrate first responders, police services and the fire department with shared information across the iPads.

While the project is paid for until fiscal year 2014, it is currently in a 90-day test period. Allowing the Integrated Project Team, comprised with select members from security forces, the fire department, the medical group, communications and command post, to work together making decisions on how to improve the system. After the test period, the system will be used by Fairchild's emergency services.

"We're leveraging the existing infrastructure we already have," said Master Sgt. Jamin Ose, 92nd Security Forces Squadron special project officer. "We've been using AtHoc for a year and half, now we're showing more of what its capabilities are."

The system runs off an application made by AtHoc. This is the same system the Air Force has been using for alerting the base populace on emergency situations. Since everyone will be on the same system communication will be improved. Places of interest can be pinpointed on the map and responders will be able to see this on their device.

The iPads are intended for daily use, on everyday situations.

Another feature these devices provide is the ability for the user to quickly send a duress call. By sliding the red button located in the middle of the screen to the left the option to type a quick message will appear, if nothing is typed then it will be assumed the officer is in a serious situation.

"The iPads expand our reach of what we can do," said Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Robison, 92nd Security Forces Squadron flight sergeant. "It's a great tool for cops to have."