The unit tracking feature within the iOS mobile responder module allows users to view and monitor the location of emergency response units in real-time on the map interface. This functionality enhances situational awareness by providing visual representation of unit positions, enabling better coordination during emergency responses and daily operations.
Background Information
Unit tracking provides critical operational awareness by displaying the real-time locations of emergency response units on the mobile map interface. This feature supports incident commanders, supervisors, and field personnel in making informed decisions about resource deployment, response coordination, and mutual aid requests. The system can display units from multiple jurisdictions and agencies, with filtering capabilities to focus on specific unit types or departments. Proper utilization of unit tracking improves response efficiency and enhances overall situational awareness during emergency operations.
Required Permissions
Responder Map - Show Unit tracking: Allows the User to view and track other Units on the map.
Video
Step-by-Step Guide
1. In Mobile Responder/App:
-Navigate to Map > Mapping Preferences > Map Layers and ensure that "Responder locations" is turned on.
2. You can now find units on the map.
3. You can also search for specific units by selecting Units.
- Then select the jurisdiction and unit that you want to view from the list.
4. The map and list of units can be filtered by Unit Type (as set in the Settings) and by Agency or Jurisdiction.
A - Select "Filter" button.
B - Select the Unit Type(s) you want displayed.
C - Select the Agency or Agencies you want displayed.
D - Select "Apply" to display your filtered units and filtered list.
E - Select "Reset" to display all Unit Types and all Agencies
Best Practices
Do's
Enable responder location layer before beginning operations that require unit tracking
Use filtering to focus on relevant units during specific incidents or operations
Regularly check unit positions during extended operations or mutual aid responses
Coordinate with dispatch to understand unit status updates and location accuracy
Use search functionality to quickly locate specific units during emergencies
Reset filters when switching between different operational contexts
Don'ts
Don't rely solely on unit tracking for critical operational decisions without radio confirmation
Don't assume all units are actively transmitting location data at all times
Don't use unit tracking as the sole method for accountability during emergency operations
Don't forget to reset filters that might hide relevant units in changing situations
Don't overlook the need to coordinate unit tracking with existing accountability systems
Tips & Recommendations
Familiarize yourself with your jurisdiction's unit identifiers and types
Practice using filtering options during training exercises
Understand which agencies and jurisdictions are available in your account
Use unit tracking in conjunction with radio communications for comprehensive situational awareness
Consider unit tracking data when making deployment and resource allocation decisions
Regularly verify that location services are functioning properly on unit devices
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: I don't see any units on the map even though responder location is enabled. What's wrong? A: Check that units in your area are actively transmitting location data and have location services enabled. Also verify your account has permissions to view unit locations for your jurisdiction.
Q: The search function isn't finding units I know are available. What should I check? A: Ensure you're using correct unit identifiers and that filters aren't excluding the units you're searching for. Try resetting all filters and searching again.
Q: Can I see units from other jurisdictions or mutual aid partners? A: Unit visibility depends on your account configuration and data sharing agreements. Contact your administrator if you need access to additional jurisdictional data.
Q: The unit locations seem outdated or inaccurate. How can I fix this? A: Location accuracy depends on individual unit devices and their GPS/location services. Coordinate with dispatch or the affected units to verify their location services are functioning properly.
Q: How often do unit locations update on the map? A: Update frequency depends on system configuration and device settings. Contact your system administrator for specific update interval information.
Q: Can I track units that are responding to incidents outside my jurisdiction? A: Tracking capabilities depend on data sharing agreements and account permissions. Check with your administrator about multi-jurisdictional tracking capabilities.
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