A recent article by Andrew Mollenbeck reported that technical problems with the roll-out of new software, coupled with a lack of training, added confusion to the already embattled DC Fire Department, featured in the recent case of a choking toddler who waited while a paramedic unit sat in the firehouse, just 3 blocks 
away, un-dispatched. While training is certainly necessary for fire department personnel, the end users of this new software, the Concerned Citizen has learned that there is a more systemic problem that begins at the DC Office of Unified Communications (OUC).
The OUC, better known as DC.911, is the agency responsible for the installation and maintenance of the computer aided dispatch system (CAD) and the technology/software that runs the system and all of its external components, and they have had recurring problems with those systems over the past several years now. Sources inside the agency tell us that, unbeknownst to the public, one or more functions and/or components of the system, which include, telephony, Automatic Vehicle Locator (AVL) and much more, fail or go off line on what seems now to be a daily basis.
The Concerned Citizen wants to know how many more city residents will have to suffer or die before DC.911 finally gets it right. Comment to let the Mayor know what you think.
Filed under: The Watch Desk
Dateline: Washington, D.C. 
Its a shame! Washington DC is the Nation’s Capital and it still has one of the worst 911 systems in the country. And they want Statehood!!!