North Carolina has successfully tested sending 911 calls across state lines, marking a significant advancement in public safety and emergency communication using Next Generation 911 (NG911) systems. In collaboration with the Washington D.C. Office of Unified Communications, Johnston County telecommunicators routed real 911 calls to D.C.’s Tactical Homeland Operations Response (THOR) unit, which coordinated responses back to the originating county, according to the N.C. Department of Information Technology.
The test demonstrated that NG911’s policy-based routing can operate effectively across state lines, ensuring continuity during emergencies such as natural disasters. Pokey Harris, Executive Director of the N.C. 911 Board, noted that the system provides a contingency-planning approach for North Carolina’s PSAPs and emphasized that other states could adopt similar capabilities, though federal funding is crucial for nationwide implementation of Next Generation 911.
The trial also confirmed alternative data pathways, integrating internal CAD systems and utilizing technology from companies like RapidSOS, along with Push-to-Talk radios connected through major carriers such as AT&T FirstNet, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless. These multiple layers strengthen the system, helping ensure emergency response continuity even if traditional communication channels fail.
North Carolina’s ESInet has proven its effectiveness in real-world situations, including during Hurricane Helene, when calls from affected areas were successfully rerouted to partner Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) within the state. Teena Piccione, N.C. 911 Board Chair and Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Information Technology, noted that the exercise shows how technology and innovation can save lives and overcome geographic barriers. The state’s approach is serving as a model for NG911 systems nationwide.
Additional information on North Carolina’s NG911 initiatives and the N.C. 911 Board’s projects is available on the Next Generation 911 website.
