8 Predictions for Public Safety Technology for 2024

More than ever before, technological advancements are creating significant changes in how public safety agencies operate and respond to emergencies.

The tools and processes at the disposal of first responders are becoming more sophisticated, interconnected and responsive to the needs of the communities they serve.

As we navigate through 2024, the public safety landscape will be defined by a surge in data-driven decision-making capabilities and innovative technologies that promise to reshape the landscape of public safety.

Looking ahead to this new year, we sat with Richard Keith, Transformation Director at CentralSquare, to discuss predictions for public safety in 2024, as well as the pivotal trends and technological advancements that are expected to influence the industry.

1. Data-Driven Decision Making in Public Safety

The advancement of public safety technology is leading to a significant increase in data acquisition from various sources such as dispatching records, crime responses and case outcomes.

As we move into 2024, the ability to analyze this wealth of data effectively is becoming paramount. Agencies are expected to adopt sophisticated analytics processes that can turn this data into actionable insights, leading to enhanced public safety measures.

This includes improving trend forecasting to anticipate and prevent crime, innovating new public safety strategies, and optimizing staff allocation to ensure resources are directed where they are most needed.

Proper data utilization will become a cornerstone in shaping the future of public safety, enabling agencies to make informed decisions backed by empirical evidence.

2. Supporting First Responder Mental Health

First responders are often exposed to traumatic situations that can lead to mental health issues such as PTSD, depression and high suicide rates. Recognizing the critical need to support the mental wellbeing of these individuals, there has been a push for legislative action.

A recent bipartisan bill has been introduced with the goal of enhancing protection for first responders and providing resources for suicide prevention.

In 2024, it is anticipated that agencies will not only continue to support these legislative efforts but will also utilize analytics to identify correlations between emergency response situations and mental health outcomes. This data-driven approach will be instrumental in adjusting protocols to better protect the mental health of first responders.

In addition to supporting first responder mental health, there will also be an increased effort to support and recognize dispatchers as first responders. The current classification of call takers is listed under an administrative category; however, reclassifying 911 dispatchers as first responders will give them access to additional benefits and support.

3. Breaking Jurisdictional Boundaries with Interagency Data Sharing

The seamless exchange of real-time and historical data between agencies is a game-changer in public safety operations. CAD-to-CAD communications are breaking down the jurisdictional barriers that previously dictated response capabilities.

This trend is expected to continue, facilitating enhanced cross-jurisdictional collaboration. Such interoperability allows for more efficient coordination of efforts not only among traditional public safety entities like police, fire, and EMS, but also with non-safety agencies, leading to quicker, more effective responses for citizens.

4. Enhanced Emergency Response with Z-axis Technology

The use of Z-axis technology is revolutionizing emergency response by providing precise location information in multi-level structures. Agencies are increasingly integrating this technology with building layout data to strategically deploy resources and ensure quick response times.

This technology will be vital for dispatchers and first responders as they navigate responses in complex environments, including high-rise buildings. The ability to pinpoint the exact location of both emergencies and responders enhances situational awareness and supports the safety of civilians and emergency personnel alike.

5. Integrating Multimedia Data in Public Safety

As we progress further into 2024, the gap between the capabilities of Next Generation 911 (NG911) and the multimedia data generated by consumer technologies continues to be a challenge.

Public safety agencies are focusing on innovative strategies to incorporate data from videos, texts, social media and crowd-sourced information. This entails partnering with technology providers and modernizing outdated systems to ensure that critical information is not missed and that the transition to full NG911 capabilities proceeds smoothly.

6. Active Role of Mobile Network Operators in Emergency Response

As we look towards the future, companies such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile are poised to expand emergency response mechanisms through a suite of advanced interoperability features tailored to meet the unique demands of public safety operations.

One of the most transformative features on the horizon is the creation of dedicated cellular networks specifically for public safety use. These specialized channels are designed to ensure reliable and secure communications for emergency responders, even in the most congested times.

In tandem with dedicated networks, these operators are expected to implement systems that provide priority access for emergency communications. This ensures that during periods of peak demand, public safety messages are given precedence over regular traffic, reducing the chance of critical communication delays that could otherwise arise due to network congestion.

Additionally, improved push-to-talk (PTT) functionalities are set to bring a new level of efficiency to frontline communications. This modern PTT technology will allow first responders to communicate instantly with a single button press, without the drawbacks of older radio systems, such as limited range or frequency interference.

The integration of PTT across cellular devices broadens the scope of communication, allowing responders to stay connected across diverse geographic areas without the need for multiple devices.

The integration of such features will likely result in faster response times, greater situational awareness for emergency personnel, and ultimately, a higher standard of public safety for the community at large.

7. Advancements in Body Camera Technology

From 2020 to 2023, the use of body cameras by agencies has increased from 60% to approximately 80%, and this trend is set to continue.

As we project into 2024 and beyond, the role of body cameras is anticipated to evolve from passive recording devices used primarily for evidence collection to dynamic tools integrated with advanced analytical capabilities.

This progression will likely include he integration of sophisticated software that can analyze video footage in near real-time will become more prevalent. This means that body camera footage will not only be reviewed post-incident but will be actively assessed as situations unfold.

Real-time streaming of body camera footage will also give command centers live access to situations as they happen. This capability will drastically improve situational awareness for decision-makers and provide immediate oversight and guidance during critical incidents.

Furthermore, body camera footage can serve as a valuable training tool, allowing agencies to conduct case studies of real-life scenarios. Through detailed reviews of officer interactions and responses, training programs can be tailored to address specific areas of improvement, reinforce best practices, and prepare officers for a wide range of encounters.

8. IoT-Driven Solutions in Public Safety

The reliance on IoT-enabled technology is becoming more pronounced in public safety sectors, aiding in crime response and supporting smaller workforces. Technologies such as license plate recognition systems, underwater drones, and aerial drones are being deployed to automate tasks that were traditionally labor-intensive.

As cities become “smarter,” first responders are leveraging IoT-driven solutions for advanced, efficient public safety operations, which is expected to continue into 2024 and beyond.

Preparing Your Agency

Looking ahead to the rest of 2024 and beyond, it’s clear that the public safety sector is in a transformative phase.

Data-driven analytics, mental health support for first responders, advanced communication networks, and the integration of IoT technologies are not just futuristic concepts but are becoming the standard to enhance public safety. The trends indicate a shift towards a more connected, informed and responsive approach to emergency situations.

The adoption of cutting-edge technologies, such as body-worn cameras with analytical capabilities and real-time streaming, as well as the implementation of comprehensive data sharing across jurisdictions, are evidence of a shift in how public safety operations are conducted.

As agencies adapt to these changes, citizens will experience a new level of safety and security in an increasingly complex and digital world.