Phoenix Police Department Launches AI Program CallTriage

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A visualization of advanced AI technology aiding emergency response teams in a city setting.

News Summary

The Phoenix Police Department is set to launch CallTriage, an advanced AI program aimed at improving 911 call response efficiency. Developed by Versaterm, it will help reduce non-emergency calls, allowing operators to focus on urgent matters. The initiative includes multilingual support to ensure accessibility for all community members. With around 2 million calls received annually, CallTriage represents a significant step toward modernizing emergency response in Phoenix.

Phoenix – The Phoenix Police Department is set to launch an advanced artificial intelligence program named CallTriage to enhance the efficiency of responding to 911 calls. Developed by the Canadian software company Versaterm, the new system aims to be operational by the end of 2025.

The primary purpose of CallTriage is to alleviate congestion in emergency call response by reducing the number of calls that police operators need to handle. This initiative seeks to decrease the incidence of callers being placed on hold for non-emergency issues, enabling 911 operators to concentrate on genuine emergencies.

With approximately 2 million calls received by the Phoenix Police Department’s Communications Bureau annually, the implementation of AI technology is expected to substantially improve the management of this high volume of calls. CallTriage will allow for better direction of the public towards suitable resources, such as online reporting systems or the dispatching of police officers, where necessary.

The need for such a system is underscored by the ongoing challenges many emergency call centers face, including high staff burnout rates and low retention. Implementing CallTriage is anticipated to free up precious human resources, allowing operators to focus more on urgent situations that require immediate attention.

In line with the department’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, CallTriage will also feature automated responses in multiple languages to assist callers from diverse backgrounds. This approach aims to ensure that all community members can access support efficiently and effectively, regardless of language barriers.

This initiative aligns with a broader trend within Arizona’s law enforcement agencies, which are increasingly integrating advanced technology into their operations. For instance, updates from an Arizona technology news source highlighted the establishment of a real-time crime center and the adoption of AI in police practices in Glendale. These advancements collectively aim to improve response times and overall public safety.

The launch of CallTriage represents a significant step for the Phoenix Police Department in embracing technology to modernize its services and improve the experience for residents. As more municipalities consider the integration of AI into emergency response systems, Phoenix is poised to set a precedent for other cities looking to streamline their operations and enhance community engagement.

As the Phoenix Police Department moves forward with the development and implementation of CallTriage, stakeholders and community members are encouraged to stay engaged in the process. Continuous updates regarding the program’s progress and anticipated rollout will be essential for promoting transparency and public trust as the city adopts these new technological enhancements.