Pre-Plans: Adding Annotations

Pre-Plans: Adding Annotations

Purpose Statement

This article demonstrates how to add and configure the various annotation tools available in the Pre-Plan editor.

Annotations allow users to visually enhance Pre-Plans with custom shapes, text, measurements, and directional indicators to improve clarity and communication for responders.

Background Information

Annotations are accessible via the pencil icon in the Pre-Plan editor.

They can be used to mark hazards, access points, zones, or provide visual guidance.

Each annotation type includes customizable properties such as color, transparency, zoom level, and display layer.

Permissions

To add and manage annotations in Pre-Plans, users must have the following permissions:
  1. Pre-Plans - Read

  1. Pre-Plans - Edit

  1. Pre-Plans - Publish

These permissions are typically assigned to all roles that will be creating Pre-Plans.

Video


Step-by-Step Guide


1. When editing a Pre-Plan, click on the annotation icon to show the annotation tool menu.


 



2.  Use the line tool  to create straight lines.


 



3. Use the polygon tool  to trace shapes and shade in areas on the map.


 



4. Use the Text  tool to place text on the map.


 



5. Use the Ruler  tool to save measurements onto the map.



  


6. Use the Circle  tool to place circles on the map.


 



7. Use the Rectangle  tool to place rectangles on the map.


 



8. Use the Arrow  tool to place arrows on the map.





9.  To keep track of each Annotation make sure to name the Annotation for easy reference.





10.  Chose the Fill Color:
  1. Fill Color
  2. Transparency of the Fill Color






11.  Visible Zoom Level  (For the Annotation)






12.  Chose the Line Color:
  1. Line Color
  2. Line Transparency
  3. Line Width





13.  Choose the Level(s) where the Annotation will be displayed.





14.  Text Annotations have the unique options of:
  1. Font Size
  2. Font Color
  3. Font Shadow Color
  4. Rotation Angle (Allows User to rotate text on map)






15.  Select UPDATE to add the Annotation to the Pre-Plan.





16. Annotations can be relocated on the map by selecting edit and then moving the annotation to the desired location.



Best Practices

  • Name all annotations for easy identification and editing.
  • Use consistent colors for annotation types (e.g., red for hazards, blue for water sources).
  • Limit clutter by using appropriate zoom levels and display layers.
  • Use text annotations to label key features or provide instructions.
  • Regularly review annotations for accuracy and relevance.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: Why can’t I see my annotation on the map?
A: Check the zoom level and display level settings. The annotation may be hidden based on those parameters.

Q: Can I duplicate an annotation?
A: Yes. Use the Copy icon in the annotation list to clone any annotation.

Q: How do I delete an annotation?
A: Select the annotation and click the Trash icon.

Q: Can I edit multiple annotations at once?
A: No. Each annotation must be edited individually.

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