Purpose Statement

The ArcGIS map integration within First Due's Web Responder module provides enhanced mapping capabilities and specialized layers for emergency response visualization. This feature allows users to view incidents, units, hydrants, cameras, and custom geographic layers provided by their GIS department. ArcGIS maps offer additional functionality beyond standard Google Maps, including specialized base maps, custom layers for utilities and infrastructure, and regional pre-planning capabilities for geographic areas rather than specific occupancies.

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Background Information

ArcGIS is a comprehensive geographic information system platform that integrates with First Due to provide advanced mapping and spatial analysis capabilities. Unlike Google Maps, ArcGIS allows departments to incorporate custom layers specific to their jurisdiction, such as utility locations, storm runoff systems, underground water and gas lines, and other critical infrastructure information.

The ArcGIS integration is particularly valuable for departments that need to visualize complex geographic data, plan for large-scale incidents, or access specialized map layers provided by their GIS department. Users can switch between Google Maps and ArcGIS based on their specific needs, with ArcGIS offering more specialized visualization options for emergency response planning and operations.

Common use cases include viewing hydrant locations during structure fires, accessing utility line information for hazmat incidents, using topographic maps for wildland operations, and pre-planning for geographic areas such as marathon routes or swift-water rescue zones.

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Required Permissions

To access and utilize ArcGIS map features in the Web Responder module, users need the following permissions:

1. No Permissions Needed
   

Note: Additional permissions for viewing specific map layers (hydrants, cameras, pre-plans, etc.) may vary based on your department's configuration and your assigned user role.

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Step-by-Step

Best Practices

Do's

• Do consult with your GIS administrator before managing or deleting custom map layers to understand their purpose and importance
• Do explore available ArcGIS base maps to determine which view is most appropriate for your current operational needs (e.g., satellite view for wildland operations, street view for urban response)
• Do toggle off unnecessary map layers to reduce visual clutter and improve map performance during active incidents
• Do use the filter function to focus on specific pre-plan unit types when searching for particular hazards or features
• Do familiarize yourself with regional pre-plan layers in your jurisdiction before they are needed during an actual incident
• Do verify your device has good GPS and cellular connection when using the center-on-location feature for accurate positioning
• Do use the measurement tool to estimate distances for apparatus placement, hose lay calculations, or evacuation zone planning

Don'ts

• Don't delete or modify custom ArcGIS layers without understanding their purpose and without approval from your GIS administrator
• Don't assume all ArcGIS features are available to all users—layer visibility and base map options depend on permissions and GIS department configuration
• Don't rely solely on filtered views during active incidents—reset filters regularly to ensure you're seeing all relevant information
• Don't forget to toggle Primary Addresses back on if you need to view Secondary Addresses, as secondary addresses require primary addresses to be enabled
• Don't neglect to explore and understand specialized layers such as utility locations before they become critical during an emergency response

Tips & Recommendations

• When responding to structure fires, enable the Hydrants layer to quickly identify water supply sources
• For hazmat incidents, consult with your GIS administrator about enabling underground utility line layers to identify potential hazards
• Switch to topographic base maps when operating in wildland or rural areas where terrain features are critical
• Use satellite base maps for unfamiliar areas or when you need to identify specific buildings, parking areas, or access points
• Create a personal checklist of which layers are most relevant to your role and jurisdiction to quickly configure your map view
• During training scenarios, practice using the measurement tool to estimate hose lays, establish collapse zones, or plan evacuation perimeters
• For large-scale planned events, coordinate with dispatch to ensure relevant regional pre-plan layers are activated before the incident
• Periodically reset your map view to default settings to ensure you haven't inadvertently filtered out important information

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: What is the difference between Google Maps and ArcGIS in First Due?
A: While both provide mapping capabilities, ArcGIS offers enhanced functionality including custom layers (utilities, infrastructure), specialized base maps (topographic, terrain), regional pre-planning capabilities, and integration with your department's GIS data. Google Maps provides a more standard street and satellite view suitable for general navigation and incident visualization.

Q: How do I know what custom ArcGIS layers are available in my jurisdiction?
A: Contact your GIS administrator or department's GIS department to request documentation on available custom layers, their purpose, and when they should be used. Many departments create guides specific to their configured layers.

Q: Can I create my own custom ArcGIS layers?
A: Custom layer creation and management is typically handled by your department's GIS administrator. Individual users can toggle existing layers on and off but should coordinate with the GIS administrator before attempting to manage, edit, or delete layers.

Q: What are regional pre-plans and when should I use them?
A: Regional pre-plans allow departments to pre-plan for geographic areas rather than specific occupancies. Use these for incidents that span large areas such as marathons, river rescue zones, swiftwater areas, or other geographic features in your jurisdiction. For detailed information, refer to the Regional Pre-Plans Knowledge Base Article.

Q: Why can't I see certain base maps that my colleague can see?
A: Available ArcGIS base maps depend on your user permissions and what your GIS department has configured. If you need access to additional base maps, contact your system administrator to request the appropriate permissions.

Q: How accurate is the measurement tool?
A: The measurement tool provides reasonably accurate distance calculations based on the map's scale and projection. However, for critical operational decisions requiring precise measurements, consider using additional measurement methods or tools to verify distances.

Related Articles

1. Mobile and Web Response: Firefighter/Unit Statusing
   
2. Web Responder: Unit Tracking
   
3. Chat Functionality (Web & Mobile)
   
4. Web Responder: Google Map Features
   
5. Web Responder: Overview