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Shelton Gray
GIS/IT Manager
Calhoun County 9-1-1 District

In 1997 the Director of Calhoun County E9-1-1 District had a vision of creating a GIS department within the agency.  In 1998 the vision was fulfilled, a base map was created and staffed with one person. Today the GIS department is the “nucleus” of the center and has three personnel on staff: a GIS technician, Data Control Clerk and GIS/IT Manager.  The base map is updated and networked to the Telecommunicator’s to aid emergency personnel to the scene. As a team we work together to complete the following tasks daily: addressing, wireless, database, VOIP and Mapping. 

ADDRESSING

Please see our addressing page on site for information.

WIRELESS

 We now have the capability of receiving Phase II data from wireless callers here in Calhoun County.  If your carrier provides this service in our county, the dispatcher is able to see your latitude and longitude on our digital map.  Please keep in mind that some carriers may require you to purchase a new handset to receive better Phase II service.  In the event the service is impaired be prepared to give the Telecommunicator your location.

The following carriers have implemented Phase II service here in Calhoun County: 

AT& T, Cingular, Verizon, SouthernLinc,T-Mobile, Nextel and Sprint. PCS is working to provide Phase II service at this time.  If you have questions about your handset or about Phase II, please contact your carrier.

DATABASE

The data control clerk performs quality control of incoming addressing, data received via phone, modem or printout by verifying data for accuracy, completeness and contacting reporting agencies to correct errors, omissions or discrepancies.  We have a listing of public and private telephone numbers only for public safety’s view in our database.  Due to the privacy act we are unable to share this information with the public.

VOIP

What is VOIP?

Voice Over Internet Protocol is the transmission of voice traffic over an IP based network.

How does it work?

The consumer must establish a hi-speed broadband connection, router and gateway.  The router sends the call over an internet connection instead of a standard telephone line.  The gateway converts the analog signal into digital format which are broken down into packets and sent over the internet.  The packets are sent through a VOIP gateway where they are reconverted to their original  analog format using the Public Telephone Switch Network(PSTN) and routed to the number dialed.

Can I dial 9-1-1 from a VOIP device?

Ask before you buy or contact your service provider.  Not all VOIP providers are able to connect to 9-1-1 or offer the service.

Things to know before you switch

  • Some service will not work during a power outage.  Consider purchasing a back up power supply.
  • If you travel with your VOIP adapter you may want to change the address associated with your adapter.  If you dial 9-1-1 from your device away from the home location it will display the address you registered for service.  Contact your service provider if you plan to move your device to update the location address.
  • Burglar alarms usually rely on analog modems for service.  Check with your service provider to ensure this service is provided.

Tips for VOIP Subscribers

  • Be prepared to give the location and call back number of your emergency
  • Tell the type of help that is needed (Police, Fire, Medics)
  • Stay on the line to answer important 9-1-1 questions
  • Don’t hang up until the operator has completed the call

 

MAPPING

The District sells wall maps and map books to the public for personal use only.  The wall maps are available in two sizes, 54 X 87 and 36 X 72, and they are printed when ordered with the latest updates.  The District’s map book is up to date at purchase.  This book is updated every six months by removing the old page and inserting the new pages provided by the district.

The map is also available on CD for public safety agencies and utility companies only by signing a licensing agreement.

For more information about this department or maps contact Shelton Gray at 256-237-9119 Ext 224 or fax at 256-236-8455.