A computer-aided emergency telephone notification system called "The
Communicator" is now in use in Overland Park.
The technology can be used by the Police Department anytime an emergency or critical situation exists and it is necessary to notify the general public. The Public Works Department will also use "The Communicator" to notify residents and business in areas impacted by street maintenance projects.
"The Communicator," contains a list of all phone numbers (except unlisted numbers - these can be added at the owner's request) in Johnson County and a map with all addresses in the county. The program operator can access the system and designate by preset phone listings or a selected map area what numbers to call. The computer then automatically dials the phone numbers for that area and plays a prerecorded emergency message. The system can track which phone numbers were reached and tell the difference between a human voice and answering machine.
Residents can identify calls from "The Communicator" with a phrase such as "This is the Overland Park Police Department, or Public Works Department, with an emergency, or important, message."
Some examples of emergency situations that would require "The Communicator":
To alert residents of a lost child: The operator will draw a circle on the computerized map and the system will automatically call every phone number in that area and play a recorded message. When the child is found, the computer will call only those numbers that received the original call and tell them the child has been found.
To alert businesses of a series of robberies: The message would provide suspect descriptions and modus operandi. The system allows the answering party to provide a recorded message back to the police if they have additional information relevant to the case.
The Public Works Department can alert residents and/or businesses to not park on certain streets, as street maintenance crews will be working in their area.
The city can use it to alert or call employees to respond to emergency situations.
This product cost the city approximately $28,000. The majority of the cost was funded through a federal grant with a 10 percent local match.
For more information, contact Gerry Tallman, manager, crime analysis unit, 913/327-6712.