In an emergency, speed and accuracy are critical. Every second counts. That’s why the “ASAP (Automated Secure Alarm Protocol) to PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point)” alarm response program was created. ASAP reduces errors and increases the speed at which first responders can react to alarms.
What is ASAP?
The Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP) is a national program that is the next generation for the processing of information from alarm monitoring stations needing emergency dispatch. This protocol was founded through the joint partnership of Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO), Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA) and National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (NLETS) – receiving government recognition and funding since 2010.
The benefits of the ASAP program are:
- Authorities can respond to emergencies faster;
- Improved accuracy/fewer dispatch errors;
- Reduced call volumes to 911 centers.
The program enjoys the support of the International Association of Police Chiefs, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, and the National Sheriff’s Association.
What does ASAP do?
In cities where it is used, ASAP delivers alarm notification information from central stations directly to public service agencies (PSAPs) via computer rather than by phone, eliminating the need for communication between monitoring center operators and 911 operators. Transmitting the data electronically not only speeds up alarm notification delivery, but also reduces the number of phone calls and processing time, and eliminates human error or miscommunication between operators. All pertinent data goes directly to first responders and the process takes a fraction of the time compared to the telephone call.
Putting ASAP into action!
Vector Security President and CEO Pam Petrow along with Past President of CSAA Ed Bonifas, co-chaired the Steering Committee to define and launch the program. Both have continued to work with other alarm companies across the United States to expand the reach of ASAP.
“ASAP is extremely important to public safety and welfare because it will save time in public safety communication centers, speed the response to critical events, and greatly reduce the likelihood of error caused by human interface.” said Ed Bonifas.
“At Vector Security, we have been involved in the ASAP program for many years now. And have seen the benefits first hand. Our customers have benefitted from reduced response times.” said Pam Petrow.
Today, the ASAP to PSAP program is active in a growing number of cities including Richmond, VA, Houston, TX, Washington, DC, Tempe, AZ and elsewhere. Because the program is scalable, it can be rolled out effectively for any city of any size.
