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VI to launch new 911 Computer-Aided Dispatch system on Sept 11

- New emergency response system to operate as a true 24/7 centre for first time
The Ministry of Health and Social Development begun training of fire officers, police, and 911 personnel ahead of the unvieling of the CAD system Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands
The CAD system is expected to enhance the ability of emergency services to respond swiftly and effectively to incidents across the Virgin Islands. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands
The CAD system is expected to enhance the ability of emergency services to respond swiftly and effectively to incidents across the Virgin Islands. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- A new 911 Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system for the Virgin Islands is set to come on stream on Thursday, September 11, 2025, as part of efforts to strengthen emergency response services in the territory.

In preparation for this launch, the Ministry of Health and Social Development has begun hands-on training for fire officers, police, and 911 personnel at the Emergency Operations Centre.

The CAD system is expected to enhance the ability of emergency services to respond swiftly and effectively to incidents across the Virgin Islands.

According to a Government Information Services (GIS) press release dated September 5, 2025, the system incorporates real-time GPS tracking of emergency calls, digital mapping, the instant transmission of directions to responding vehicles, and access to property and location details through the Town and Country Planning’s GIS database.

Additionally, it integrates multiple communication channels, allowing fire, police, and medical services to coordinate more seamlessly.

New system removes 'guesswork'

Director of the 911 and Emergency Operations Centre, Russell Jones, described the system as a transformational moment for emergency response in the Virgin Islands.

Mr Jones explained, “We have had situations where responders could see smoke from a fire but did not know how to get to the exact location. This new system removes that guesswork. It provides pinpoint accuracy, step-by-step directions, and critical details that will save time—and in many cases, save lives.”

Jones added that the launch will also allow 911 to operate as a true 24/7 centre for the first time.

Director Jones added, “Before, calls made between midnight and 7:00 a.m. were handled by the Fire Department. With this launch, 911 will run three full shifts every day, supported by advanced technology. This will significantly improve how we serve the public.”

4 Responses to “VI to launch new 911 Computer-Aided Dispatch system on Sept 11”

  • black (08/09/2025, 15:32) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Let's see how this works out again! first thing for this technology to truly work we need real reliable internet service across the islands! Did anyone thought about going out and confirming all locations in real time and not just relying on google maps? We like to keep putting the cart in front the horse all the time for some reason. This 911 was launched a few years ago and it never worked as was promised, now here we are again launching the said project again. Make it make sense!
  • 2024 (08/09/2025, 16:46) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    when will we have all the relevant emergency response systems throughout our villages

    fire trucks have to depart road town
    Ambulance have to depart from road town
    Police have to depart from road town
    Customs have to depart from road town
    Immigration have to depart from road

    only ting got fix in our territory is the hillside fires down pockwood pond from sending all that poisonous smoke down the Bay

    Government after Government and not much evidence of development for the people

    All the people get is a bunch talk just before the general election Once election done nothing

  • curiou (08/09/2025, 17:29) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    How does one here get trained to apply for a job such as this?


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