What is the purpose of a Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system in a PSAP?

What is the purpose of a Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system in a PSAP?

• A. To record all incoming and outgoing calls for audit purposes
• B. To help dispatchers manage and record incident information effectively
• C. To serve as the main source of training material for operators
• D. To facilitate communication with non-emergency agencies

Answer: (B)

A Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system is crucial within a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) as it is designed specifically to assist dispatchers in managing and recording incident information efficiently. The CAD system allows dispatchers to input and retrieve data related to emergency calls, track the status and location of units, and document incidents as they unfold. This capability helps ensure a quick and organized response to emergencies, which is essential for public safety response effectiveness. The system enhances efficiency by integrating various functions, such as mapping, unit status, and resource allocation, which streamlines the dispatch process. By facilitating real-time information sharing and providing a comprehensive record of incident details, the CAD system ultimately aids in decision-making and coordination among first responders. In contrast, while recording calls is important for accountability and quality assurance, that function is primarily served by call recording systems rather than the CAD. Similarly, training materials are developed separately from the dispatch operations themselves and involve different resources. Communication with non-emergency agencies is also a distinct function that may not necessarily be managed through the CAD, as it focuses primarily on emergency incident management.

A Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system is crucial within a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) as it is designed specifically to assist dispatchers in managing and recording incident information efficiently. The CAD system allows dispatchers to input and retrieve data related to emergency calls, track the status and location of units, and document incidents as they unfold. This capability helps ensure a quick and organized response to emergencies, which is essential for public safety response effectiveness.

The system enhances efficiency by integrating various functions, such as mapping, unit status, and resource allocation, which streamlines the dispatch process. By facilitating real-time information sharing and providing a comprehensive record of incident details, the CAD system ultimately aids in decision-making and coordination among first responders.

In contrast, while recording calls is important for accountability and quality assurance, that function is primarily served by call recording systems rather than the CAD. Similarly, training materials are developed separately from the dispatch operations themselves and involve different resources. Communication with non-emergency agencies is also a distinct function that may not necessarily be managed through the CAD, as it focuses primarily on emergency incident management.