AN idea for the development of a solution to provide timely emergency services led to the creation of a mobile software app First Alert.

The emergency response platform that persons can access through their phones, was developed by First Responders Technology Limited, a Kingston-based technology firm, headed by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Aldain Reid.

Reid told JIS News that the product, which has been in use for the last few months, is a subscription-based service, available to everyone, especially persons prioritising safety, health and security.

“Any [person] that is travelling across the world and wants to ensure that they are safe wherever they go may use the app, as the organisation is able to handle calls globally,” he noted.

Reid added that First Alert can be downloaded free on both IOS and android platforms, after which persons may access the service through a $250 monthly subscription.

“Once you download the app, if you have an emergency, with the simple tap of a button, you are able to access the call centre, which operates 24 hours, which then manages the issue,” Reid stated.

He indicated, however, that in managing an emergency there might be need for third-party services such as an ambulance, which the organisation will also arrange. “It’s a full end-to-end service,” he explained.

Some of the services offered through the app include the provision of emergency responses for medical dispatch, personal security and roadside assistance using approved protocols.

“A call comes in to our call centre, based on our technology, we are able to see who you are and where you are, once you are a subscriber,” he explained.

He said this is very important, as in the provision of emergency services, the ability to pinpoint locations is important, adding that is something the company has pioneered.

Additionally, the CEO noted that based on the information requested, when people initially register, the company would also have information on the user, such as health records, pre-existing conditions and next-of-kin.

Reid also told JIS News that when the nature of an emergency is established, the call centre will dispatch the relevant third-party emergency provider closest to the user. He added that these services would then be paid for by the user.

“The problem we are trying to solve is the absence of coherent or structured emergency services, as Jamaica does not currently have a formal emergency response service,” the chief executive officer pointed out.

He noted that this was part of the inspiration behind the development of the app, as an individual with whom he was close died due to the absence of speedy emergency services.

Reid contended that the development of the app “is evidence to show how technology can transform ideas into solutions”.

He said the ground-breaking services provision has been bolstered by the recruitment of a staff of 20 persons globally, some of whom are trained emergency medical dispatch officers.

The team, he added, will shortly be increased as the company expands.

The app, which was entered in the 2018 National Medal for Science, Technology and Innovation Awards in November, won the Health and Safety category.

The company was also recognised by the World Bank for being one of 30 companies worldwide to initiate projects with potential global impact.

He added that there has been positive public feedback to the app since its introduction.

He said also that the team has been very excited that as a Jamaican company, they are able to execute an idea that they anticipate will have a significant impact.

— JIS