VoIP and 911- are we applying old methods to new technology? The basic infrastructure of the 911 system relates to the fact that every home has a standard landline, and that phone line can be traced to produce an accurate address. This makes the 911 system “traceable” and is even deployed in the “reverse 911 system”.

Because VoIP technology exists by sending “Packets” or units of information as data signals over the Internet, and because many Internet connections are mobile and high speed Internet can be wireless or through a cable modem, the technology to “trace” a computer’s location to determine an address in the case of a 911 emergency just isn’t reliable.

As the market for VoIP continues to grow daily, the issue of VoIP users and 911 has been of prime importance. The main question is, “Where does VoIP fit in with Basic 911?” The system of emergency management has undergone many changes over the years but has finally evolved to a very thorough system providing quick and timely response in the case of an emergency. When a person calls 911 from a standard telephone, they are immediately transferred to a Public Safety Answering Point Dispatcher. The dispatcher has the capabilities of seeing your phone number and location when you call.

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