Purpose Statement
The chat functionality within Web Responder provides real-time communication capabilities for emergency personnel during incidents and routine operations. This feature enables department members to send custom messages and preset communications within designated chat groups, facilitating coordinated response efforts and operational communication.
Background Information
Effective communication is critical during emergency response operations, and the chat functionality provides a dedicated communication channel within the First Due system. Chat groups can be configured to include specific users, entire departments, or operational units, allowing for targeted communication during incidents or routine operations. The system supports both custom messaging and preset messages for quick, standardized communications. Chat notifications ensure users are aware of new messages across both mobile and web platforms, maintaining communication continuity regardless of the device being used.
Required Permissions
- Others> Chat Groups and Chat Preset Messages: Allows user access to Chat, Chat groups and the Chat preset messages
Video
Step-by-Step Guide
5. You can also send pre-set messages to members within your chat group. Select the little blue button next to the message box and the preset messages will appear.
- Select the preset message that you want, and it will automatically send to members within your chat group.
Best Practices
Do's
- Use appropriate chat groups for different types of communications
- Utilize preset messages for standardized, time-sensitive communications
- Monitor chat notifications regularly during active incidents
- Keep custom messages clear, concise, and professional
- Verify you're in the correct chat group before sending messages
- Check for unread messages regularly using notification indicators
Don'ts
- Don't send non-operational messages in emergency response chat groups
- Don't ignore chat notifications during active incidents
- Don't use chat as a substitute for critical radio communications
- Don't send confidential information through chat groups without proper authorization
- Don't spam chat groups with unnecessary messages
- Don't assume all personnel will see messages immediately
Tips & Recommendations
- Learn your department's preset messages for efficient communication
- Use chat for coordination and information sharing during incidents
- Coordinate chat group usage with your department's communication protocols
- Test chat functionality on both mobile and web platforms for familiarity
- Establish departmental guidelines for appropriate chat usage
- Consider chat groups for different operational needs (engines, trucks, EMS, etc.)
- Use chat to supplement, not replace, established radio communication procedures
Troubleshooting & FAQs
A: Chat group visibility depends on your user permissions and group membership. Contact your administrator if you need access to additional groups.
A: Sent messages should appear in the chat group conversation. If messages don't appear, check your network connection and try resending.
A: Chat group creation is typically managed by administrators. Refer to the knowledge base article on "Web Response Chat Groups" or contact your system administrator.
A: Check your device notification settings and ensure the First Due app has permission to send notifications. Also verify your chat group membership.
A: Chat functionality requires network connectivity. Messages sent while offline may not be delivered until connection is restored.
A: Message editing and deletion capabilities depend on system configuration. Check with your administrator about message management options.