DOVER, Del. – The Dover Police Department Communications Center has become one of the first emergency call centers in the nation to implement new video streaming and language translation features as part of Delaware’s Enhanced 911 (E911) service upgrades. The enhancements are part of a statewide initiative to modernize emergency communication systems and are expected to be fully operational across all Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) by 2026.
The recent implementation allows 911 callers to stream live video from emergency scenes directly to dispatchers, enabling call takers to better assess the nature and severity of incidents in real time. In addition, the system supports automatic text translation, providing language assistance for non-English-speaking callers and improving access to emergency services across Delaware’s diverse population.
Officials overseeing the upgrades said that the new features will allow dispatchers to provide first responders with critical, real-time information, including the status of individuals involved in medical emergencies, fire size and location, or the extent of vehicle damage in traffic collisions. The improvements are part of the State’s NextGen project, which equips 911 centers with the latest software and hardware systems to keep pace with evolving communication technologies.
The upgrades were funded through the E911 Emergency Reporting System Fund, which is supported by a monthly surcharge on landline and wireless phone services. The initiative is overseen by the State Enhanced 911 Board, which allocates funding, develops standards, and ensures consistent, professional service across all E911 centers in Delaware.
There are currently eight PSAPs across the state, including centers in New Castle, Newark, Wilmington, the University of Delaware, Kent County, Sussex County, Rehoboth, and Dover. Each center plays a critical role in answering emergency calls and coordinating response efforts among local fire, police, and medical personnel.
There are currently eight PSAPs across the state, including centers in New Castle, Newark, Wilmington, the University of Delaware, Kent County, Sussex County, Rehoboth, and Dover. Each center plays a critical role in answering emergency calls and coordinating response efforts among local fire, police, and medical personnel.