Article Originally Presented by SSI – Authored by Tom Nakatani

AVS-01 initiative by TMA, PPVAR and ADT aims to provide critical details to first responders using both historical and real-time data

A new alarm evaluation standard, known as the Alarm Validation Scoring Standard (AVS-01), is being implemented nationally to enhance how emergency services assess alarm calls and improve response efficiency.

This initiative, led by The Monitoring Association (TMA) in collaboration with the Partnership for Priority Verified Alarm Response (PPVAR), aims to provide critical details to first responders using both historical and real-time data. These insights help responders gauge the severity of threats as they take place and make informed decisions swiftly.

Traditionally, U.S. monitoring centers have dispatched emergency services on a first-come, first-served basis, but this approach does not take into consideration the severity of each unique situation.

AVS-01, introduced as the new standard in June 2024, ensures that monitoring centers can categorize alarms starting at Level 1 – with the flexibility to escalate or deescalate based on additional information received – and provide a description of the event.

By using corroborating evidence from smart home security systems to produce a validation score, AVS-01 shifts away from the traditional approach. Instead, it prioritizes responses based on the gravity and credibility of the alarm.

Inside the AVS-01 Level Classifications

The full AVS-01 alarm level classifications are:

• Level 0 – No call for service (event canceled/cleared)
• Level 1 – Intrusion alarm with no additional or limited information
• Level 2 – Intrusion alarm with confirmed or highly probable human presence with unknown intent
• Level 3 – Intrusion alarm with confirmed threat to property
• Level 4 – Intrusion alarm with confirmed threat to life (non-user-initiated event)

Historically, alarm level classifications differed between municipalities, resulting in inconsistent emergency responses. AVS-01 addresses this by introducing a standardized, structured approach that provides dispatch centers and law enforcement with more situational awareness.

This improves decision-making for dispatch centers, leading to more efficient and effective allocation of emergency resources as well as more prepared emergency responders.

For AVS-01 to become a national standard, it needs adoption across the diverse landscape of 911 centers nationwide. ADT, leveraging its extensive experience and partnerships in public safety, is spearheading efforts to implement AVS-01 across various jurisdictions by offering a first-of-its-kind pilot program that educated and provided training information for emergency call centers on the new standard.

ADT also supported this by becoming the first national provider to obtain UL Certification on the adoption of AVS-01. Acquiring and maintaining the UL Certification assures customers and public safety that ADT fully complies with the standard we helped develop.

AVS-01 promotes enhanced emergency response by encouraging businesses and homeowners to equip their alarm systems with real-time verification capabilities.  This new standard also drives add-ons and upgrades to their systems, helping customers better protect what matters to them most. This includes the use of technologies like real-time video and sensors, combined with 24/7 professional monitoring.

Looking ahead, we expect AVS-01 to significantly impact the alarm industry by making video and other technology verified systems essential for ensuring prompt emergency responses. This new standard will also serve as a competitive differentiator that will distinguish professional monitoring companies that can quickly and accurately provide alarm level information to public safety from those that cannot.

Organizations adopting these advancements not only protect their assets and personnel but also contribute to community safety.

The adoption of AVS-01 on a national scale has the potential to greatly improve the efficiency and accuracy of emergency response services as a whole, as well as how professional monitoring can work alongside emergency services to keep people and their property safe and secure.

Tom Nakatani is the vice president of IT, customer monitoring technology for ADT Security Services.

In emergency situations, every second counts. A delay in the transmission of crucial information—whether it’s a caller’s location or medical history—can mean the difference between life and death. Historically, 911 systems have relied on voice communication and limited data, with dispatchers relying on the ability of callers to describe their situation or location. In today’s fast-paced, technologically driven world, this method is increasingly seen as inefficient. Enter RapidSOS, a transformative technology designed to bridge the gap between real-time data and emergency response, fundamentally reshaping how dispatchers and authorities respond to emergencies.

RapidSOS is a secure platform that links 911 and first responders with accurate, real-time data directly from connected devices and apps, allowing emergency services to access critical information during an emergency call. Unlike traditional 911 systems that rely solely on voice communication and limited location data from cell towers, RapidSOS provides dispatchers with a richer dataset, including:

• Precise location data from mobile devices, apps, wearables, and other connected platforms.
• Health profiles, including pre-existing medical conditions and allergies.
• Crash data from vehicles, providing detailed information on severity and impact.
• Real-time alerts from security systems, fire alarms, or health devices like Apple Watches and Fitbit monitors.

The platform was built to integrate seamlessly with the current 911 infrastructure, ensuring that emergency responders have access to this crucial data without overhauling existing systems.

When a person makes a 911 call, RapidSOS pulls data from connected apps and devices that the caller may have and sends this information to the 911 dispatcher through its secure platform. Instead of just receiving a phone number or a generalized location, dispatchers can see a detailed map of the caller’s exact location and any additional information that can aid in the emergency response.

For example, if a person is in a car accident, RapidSOS can transmit the car’s exact coordinates, the impact speed, and whether airbags were deployed. If the caller has a medical emergency and uses a health-monitoring device, the platform can provide paramedics with critical information such as heart rate, oxygen levels, or pre-existing conditions, even if the caller is unconscious or unable to communicate.

1. Faster, More Accurate Dispatching

   One of the most significant improvements RapidSOS brings to the table is location accuracy. Traditional 911 systems rely on GPS from cell towers, which may take time to determine or be inaccurate, especially in densely populated or rural areas. RapidSOS pinpoints the caller’s exact location with precision, reducing response times.

   Dispatchers, instead of relying on verbal directions from distressed callers, can now access real-time maps and location data. This is particularly useful for individuals who may not know their exact whereabouts—such as children, the elderly, or people in unfamiliar areas.

2. Improved Safety for First Responders

   Not only does RapidSOS enhance the safety of citizens, but it also improves the safety of the responders. With more detailed information about the situation they are walking into, first responders can better prepare. For example, receiving data from home security systems or gunshot detection systems can alert dispatchers to potential threats in an area, ensuring law enforcement is better equipped.

3. Medical Emergencies and Health Data

   RapidSOS integrates with health data platforms, enabling dispatchers to view crucial medical information in real time. During a medical emergency, every detail can be critical. RapidSOS provides data such as known allergies, existing medical conditions, and recent vital statistics. This empowers emergency medical services (EMS) to administer the appropriate treatment more quickly and accurately, and it allows hospitals to prepare for incoming patients with more contextual information.
4. Seamless Integration with Smart Devices

With the growing presence of smart homes, cars, and health devices, emergency calls are no longer limited to smartphones. Devices such as home security alarms, OnStar in vehicles, Apple Watches, and even voice assistants like Amazon Alexa can trigger an emergency alert. These devices can automatically send data to 911 via RapidSOS, ensuring help arrives without needing a traditional phone call.

1. This is especially beneficial in scenarios where individuals might not be able to call for help themselves, such as during a medical crisis, a fire, or an auto accident where the driver is incapacitated.
2. RapidSOS marks a significant leap in emergency response technology, aligning the industry with modern data-sharing capabilities and enhancing the effectiveness of public safety.  The platform’s ability to connect to thousands of devices and transmit life-saving information to emergency dispatchers means faster response times, more accurate data, and better outcomes for individuals in distress.

In the future, the role of RapidSOS is expected to expand as more connected devices become available. The potential for integration with smart homes, autonomous vehicles, and advanced health monitoring systems will make emergency response systems even more proactive. For example, future iterations could enable cars to autonomously alert authorities in case of an accident, or homes to automatically detect and report fire or carbon monoxide threats in real time.

Furthermore, as artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more integrated with emergency response systems, platforms like RapidSOS may also begin to offer predictive capabilities. AI could analyze patterns in the data to predict emergencies before they occur, offering real-time risk assessments to dispatchers and authorities. This could be particularly beneficial in fields like disaster response, mental health crises, and crime prevention.

RapidSOS represents a groundbreaking evolution in emergency response technology, making traditional 911 services more efficient, accurate, and responsive to today’s needs. By providing dispatchers with instant access to life-saving data, the platform is transforming how authorities respond to emergencies, ensuring faster, smarter, and more effective interventions. As technology continues to advance, the role of RapidSOS and similar platforms will only become more integral to public safety, making communities safer and saving countless lives in the process.

In Louisiana, a qualifier for a business licensed by the State Fire Marshal’s Office must meet certain criteria to ensure that the business is capable of performing fire protection and safety services.  The qualifier plays a critical role in ensuring that the licensed business adheres to fire safety standards and operates within the regulatory framework set by the state.  It is very helpful for companies to have more than one qualifier on staff as the need to replace a qualifier often comes without notice.  If a company licensed by the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office loses its qualifier (the individual responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance), the company must take the following steps to maintain its license:

1. Notify the State Fire Marshal’s Office: The company must inform the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office immediately (currently the law states within 10 days) upon the loss of the qualifier. This could be due to resignation, termination, death, or other reasons for the qualifier no longer being employed by the company.
2. Appoint a Temporary Qualifier (if applicable): In some cases, the State Fire Marshal may allow the company to appoint a temporary qualifier if another qualified individual is available within the company. This person must have the required knowledge and experience but may still need to pass the necessary exams.
3. Find a Replacement Qualifier: The company is required to designate a new full-time qualifier who meets all the necessary qualifications, including passing the required examinations.  If you have more than one qualifier on staff this is simply a matter of paperwork
   1. Professional Expertise: The qualifier must have sufficient knowledge and experience in the fire protection industry relevant to the specific license category, such as fire alarms, sprinklers, fire extinguishers, or life safety systems.
   2. Passing Required Exams: The qualifier must pass the appropriate training and examination(s) administered or approved by the Louisiana State Fire Marshal. The exams ensure the individual understands the technical and regulatory aspects of the services the business intends to provide.
   3. Employment with the Licensed Company: The qualifier must be a full-time employee of the company seeking a license. They are responsible for overseeing the compliance of the company’s operations with state regulations.
4. Application for New Qualifier: Once a new qualifier is selected, the company must apply to the State Fire Marshal’s Office identifying the new qualifier, along with their qualifications, exam results, and relevant experience.
5. Compliance Period: The State Fire Marshal’s Office typically grants a grace period for the company to find a new qualifier. During this time, the company can continue operating, but it must ensure that a new qualified individual is appointed within the timeframe allowed. Failure to do so could result in the suspension or revocation of the company’s license.
6. Suspension of License (if necessary): If the company fails to designate a new qualifier within the allotted time, the license may be suspended, and the business may be prohibited from performing fire protection work until a new qualifier is approved.
7. Continuing Education and Recertification: The qualifier is required to complete 8 hours of continuing education or training per year in addition to mandatory Administrative Review and Plan Review Classes taught by the State Fire Marshal’s Office to maintain their status and stay current with fire safety codes and regulations.

It’s essential for the company to act quickly to avoid disruptions in their business operations.  It is strongly suggested that companies have more than one qualifier on staff to avoid the issues that can arise in the event the current full-time qualifier is no longer available to the company.

Since 1922, the NFPA has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week. In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance, making it the longest-running public health observance in our country. During Fire Prevention Week, children, adults, and teachers learn how to stay safe in case of a fire. Firefighters provide lifesaving public education in an effort to drastically decrease casualties caused by fires.

Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9th in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused devastating damage. This horrific conflagration killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres of land.

This year Fire Prevention Week is October 6-12, 2024

This year’s FPW campaign, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!” strives to educate everyone about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home. 

You can find everything you need to education your community about fire safety on the Fire Prevention week website at NFPA.org.

Reminder LLSSA Members get a Discount when they use Canal HR.

Department of Labor increased salary threshold for FLSA Exemptions.

Are you in compliance?

In order for salaried exempt employees to remain exempt from overtime, they must meet the new salary thresholds below.  There will be additional increases for 2025, 2027, and then every three years.

Any salaried employees no meeting the new salary thresholds levels should be paid as an hourly enployee and receive overtime pay for any hours worked over 40 hours in your company’s week pay period.  Regardless of your pay period, hours worked must always be tracked on a weekly basis.

To be tax exempt from overtime pay your employees must:

1. be paid a salary
2. be paid at least minimum salary
3. perform executive, administrative, or professional duties.

Lithium-ion batteries have become a staple in modern electronics, powering everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. However, their widespread use raises important concerns about safe storage, responsible disposal, and the proper way to extinguish a fire should one occur. This article will explore best practices in these areas to ensure the safe and sustainable use of lithium batteries.

Safe Storage of Lithium Batteries

Proper storage of lithium batteries is critical to both safety and battery longevity. While these batteries are designed to be stable under normal conditions, improper storage can increase the risk of overheating, leakage, and in extreme cases, fire or explosion. Below are key guidelines for safe storage:

• Temperature Control: Store lithium batteries in a cool, dry environment. Ideally, they should be kept at a temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Extreme temperatures—both hot and cold—can reduce battery lifespan and may cause swelling or leakage.

• Avoid Overcharging or Complete Drainage: Batteries stored at full charge or completely drained for long periods can degrade faster. Experts recommend storing batteries at around 40-60% of their capacity to maintain longevity.

• Separation from Flammable Materials: Keep lithium batteries away from flammable or combustible items. Additionally, avoid storing them in metal containers that could cause a short circuit if terminals come into contact.

• Proper Packaging: When storing multiple batteries, ensure they are not in direct contact with each other. Ideally, keep them in their original packaging or use plastic cases that prevent terminals from touching.

Responsible Disposal of Lithium Batteries

Improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries can lead to environmental harm and safety risks. Batteries contain toxic materials, and if mishandled, can cause fires or pollute soil and water. Here are key steps to ensure safe and responsible disposal:

• Recycling Programs: Lithium-ion batteries should never be thrown in household waste or recycling bins. Many local governments, electronics retailers, and battery manufacturers offer recycling programs. Look for dedicated battery recycling drop-off points in your community.

• Proper Handling Before Disposal: Before disposing of a battery, it’s important to insulate the terminals (for instance, with non-conductive tape) to prevent accidental short-circuiting. Short circuits can cause batteries to overheat or catch fire, even during disposal.

• E-Waste Facilities: Many cities have e-waste collection sites where used electronics, including lithium-ion batteries, can be safely disposed of. These facilities follow strict environmental protocols to recycle valuable metals and materials while minimizing harmful waste.

• Transportation Safety: If transporting used batteries to a recycling center, ensure that they are packed securely to avoid accidental damage or punctures. Use non-conductive, fireproof containers for added safety during transit.

Extinguishing Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

Lithium-ion battery fires, though rare, can be challenging to extinguish. When a battery experiences a short circuit or severe damage, it may enter a state called “thermal runaway.” This process causes the battery to overheat rapidly and, in some cases, ignite. Understanding how to extinguish such fires is critical:

• Do Not Use Water on Large Battery Fires: Water can exacerbate lithium battery fires. For small fires, a small amount of water can help cool down the surrounding area, but for larger fires, water should be avoided as it may cause a chemical reaction that spreads the fire.

• Use Class D Fire Extinguishers: A Class D fire extinguisher is specifically designed to put out fires involving metals, including lithium. These extinguishers work by smothering the fire with a powder that absorbs heat and reduces the oxygen supply, preventing further combustion.

• Lithium-Ion Fire Extinguishers: Some fire extinguishers are designed for lithium-ion batteries specifically. These are commonly found in industrial settings or locations where battery fires are a higher risk.

• Isolate the Fire, If Possible: If a lithium battery catches fire, try to move flammable objects away and, if possible, evacuate the area. Let the battery burn out in a controlled environment to avoid potential explosions or release of toxic fumes.

• Use Sand or Dry Powder for Smaller Fires: In the absence of a proper fire extinguisher, sand or dry powder can help contain smaller lithium battery fires. Covering the fire in sand can suffocate the flames and cool the battery.

With the growing use of lithium-ion batteries in modern technology, it is vital to adopt safe storage practices, ensure responsible disposal, and understand how to respond effectively to fires involving these batteries. While lithium-ion batteries are generally safe, following these guidelines will help mitigate risks and promote environmental sustainability.  By storing batteries at moderate temperatures, recycling them responsibly, and using appropriate fire extinguishing methods, we can continue to benefit from this technology without compromising safety.

At the August State Meeting in Lake Charles, we had the honor of hearing from Guest Speaker Richard McGuire, the Executive Director of the Calcasieu Parish Communications District. Richard shared valuable insights into alarm reporting in his district and offered suggestions for enhancing the efficiency of that reporting process.

Since its inception in 1989, Calcasieu has operated the first Call Center (PSAP) in the area, serving as the primary point for handling all 911 calls in the parish. This center not only dispatches emergency services for the community but also oversees most municipal and volunteer fire departments, as well as the 3rd Ward Marshal’s Office. With a dedicated team of 27 employees, they maintain five dispatchers per shift to manage the workload.

During his presentation, Richard highlighted that CAD entries at the 911 center have decreased by 7.5% since last year and 20% since 2016, the peak year for call volume. While this decline is positive, he pointed out that approximately two-thirds of these entries are classified as false alarms—meaning no actual emergency exists at the reported location. Alarmingly, the majority of false entries are related to burglary calls.

Diving deeper into the “burglary” calls from 2023 revealed some sobering statistics: out of 4,256 alarm calls dispatched to the police, only 37 (or 9%) were confirmed as actual emergencies. A significant portion of these false alarms—27% (1,157)—were due to homeowner or employee errors, while 43% (1,848) had unknown causes. Additionally, 5% (218) were weather-related, and 24% (1,033) were canceled by the alarm companies. This issue places immense pressure on local authorities, resulting in delayed response times and wasted resources, not to mention the fines levied on alarm owners.

Richard emphasized the critical role that accurate information plays in assisting the 911 center. Alarm companies must ensure they have the correct data, including complete addresses, cross streets, detailed descriptions of the alarms, and entry codes for gates and doors. Providing the names and contact information of individuals responding to the alarm, along with vehicle details, can significantly enhance the dispatch process, especially during emergencies where access may be restricted. Keeping this information current is paramount.

To improve communication and dispatch speed, Calcasieu is taking proactive steps, including implementing Text-to-911 services, which allow alarm calls to be reported via text, initiating a chat session with the dispatch team. They are also collaborating with RapidSOS, a system designed to gather key response information, verify alarms, and streamline the dispatch process.

The insights shared by Richard McGuire underscore the importance of accurate communication in emergency response efforts. By taking proactive measures and ensuring that the information provided to the 911 center is precise and up to date, we can all contribute to more efficient and effective emergency services in our communities. Let’s work together to minimize false alarms and ensure that our local authorities can respond swiftly and effectively when genuine emergencies arise.

The POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) sunset refers to the gradual phasing out of traditional analog telephone services by telecommunications companies. As they transition to more modern digital communication technologies, this shift has several impacts and necessitates exploring innovative alternatives.

Impacts of the POTS Sunset

1. Access and Connectivity: Many rural and underserved communities still rely on POTS for their phone service. The transition may leave some without reliable communication options, especially where internet access is limited.

2. Emergency Services: Traditional landlines provide consistent service during power outages and are often prioritized for 911 calls. The move away from POTS could complicate access to emergency services in certain areas.

3. Consumer Adaptation: Users accustomed to POTS will need to adapt to new technologies, which can be challenging for older populations or those less familiar with digital devices.

4. Business Operations: Businesses that depend on POTS for their operations may face disruptions if they don’t transition to new systems in time. This can affect customer service and operational efficiency.

5. Regulatory Changes: The sunset of POTS raises questions about regulation and consumer protections. New frameworks may be needed to address issues like service reliability and accessibility.

Alternative to POTS

1. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): This technology allows voice communication over the internet. It offers features like call forwarding, voicemail to email, and video conferencing, making it a versatile alternative.

2. Cellular Services: Mobile networks provide a reliable communication method, especially as coverage expands. However, this requires access to mobile devices and may not work well in areas with poor cellular coverage.

3. Satellite Communication: For rural and remote areas, satellite phones can provide voice and data services where traditional infrastructure is lacking. Innovations in satellite technology continue to improve accessibility and affordability.

4. Fixed Wireless Access: This technology uses radio signals to provide internet connectivity to homes and businesses, enabling VoIP and other internet-based communication methods.

5. Hybrid Systems: Combining traditional and digital methods can help ease the transition. For instance, some services offer a landline experience using VoIP technology, allowing users to maintain familiarity while benefiting from modern features.

6. Community Networks: Grassroots initiatives to build local communication networks can enhance connectivity in underserved areas. These networks often leverage community resources and technologies to create reliable systems.

7. Smart Home Integration: As smart home devices become more prevalent, they can enhance communication. For instance, smart speakers can facilitate voice calls, messages, and video chats, providing users with multiple communication options.

The POTS sunset presents both challenges and opportunities. While it may disrupt traditional communication methods, it also opens the door to innovative alternatives that can improve connectivity and access. As communities and individuals adapt, it’s crucial to ensure that all voices are heard and that everyone has access to reliable communication technologies.

In the past 20 years, advancements in modern communications technology have created the need for a more advanced system to access emergency care. While the existing 9-1-1 system has been a success story for more than 30 years, it has been stretched to its limit as technology advances.