Thursday, September 4, 2025
|
|
Welcome to our monthly update, where we highlight the latest developments, initiatives and exciting changes from ECN. This update aims to keep you informed and engaged with what's happening within our team.
Subscribe here.
GIS update
Thanks to the hard work of GIS professionals across the state, our combined NG911 GIS dataset is about 90 percent complete. This data supports Minnesota’s NG911 system, but it can also be useful in other ways.
For example, NG911 address points and road centerline data are now being used in the mapped ALI tools from RapidDeploy and RapidSOS—tools that many Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) rely on. These platforms help improve emergency response and keep communities safer by using better GIS data.
Did you know these platforms can also use other local GIS data? Things like park trails, indoor maps of important buildings, evacuation zones, and public access points to land and water can all be added.
For more information on adding your local GIS data to RapidDeploy or RapidSOS, please reach out to Kelsey Jindra (RapidDeploy) or Bri Lee (RapidSOS).
|
ESInet connectivity
ECN is undertaking a project to upgrade and replace some aging ESInet circuits. PSAPs affected by this work will receive a direct formal communication outlining the process.
Please direct any financial or joint powers agreement related questions to Claire Thomas and direct any network transition process questions to Joe Fick.
|
IPAWS tips
Does your PSAP issue emergency alerts? If so, here are some tips!
- Each alerting partner uses their own software and configuration that is unique for their jurisdiction. Ensure that new telecommunicators are appropriately trained, and recommend refresher training as needed.
- Utilize FEMA best practices, including the free message designer.
- When possible, have a second set of eyes "check" the message and parameters before it is sent.
- It’s a good idea to coordinate any alerts and messages with your agency’s communications team or PIO. Make sure there is a plan in place to direct people to find out more information.
For more information or assistance, please email ECN at ecn@state.mn.us.
|
Minnesota State Fair
Thank you to everyone who stopped by the ECN booth at the State Fair! We appreciated the opportunity to meet so many community members, answer questions, and share important information about 911, Text-to-911, and emergency communications in Minnesota. We were grateful for the chance to connect with you.
|
|
 |
NorthStar III communications exercise
We appreciate all of the agencies and partners who participated in our recent interoperability communications exercise. Your time, expertise and collaboration were key to the success of this effort. These exercises are only possible through the strong partnerships we share across public safety, and together we are ensuring that Minnesota remains ready to respond when it matters most.
|
Text-to-911 update
Conversations at the State Fair highlighted just how important it is to continue public education on Text-to-911. Many people we spoke with were surprised to learn the service is available, underscoring that awareness is still limited. Ongoing outreach and reminders are essential so the public understands how and when to use Text-to-911, particularly in situations where calling is not safe or possible. By keeping this education effort active, we can ensure that more people are aware of this life-saving option when they need it most. With that in mind, we plan to launch a new Text-to-911 campaign in the coming months to help educate the public.
|
Did You Know?
-
September is Suicide Prevention Month. This month is an important opportunity to remind communities about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Just like 911 connects people to police, fire, and EMS in an emergency, 988 provides immediate access to mental health crisis support.
-
National Preparedness Month serves as a timely reminder to educate the public on how and when to use 911 as an integral part of broader emergency readiness efforts. Collaboration with local agencies and community partners strengthens this outreach.
-
ECN is collaborating with the Central Minnesota Communications Unit (COMU) on a full-scale communications exercise Sept. 10, 2025, at Sibley State Park near New London in Kandiyohi County. This event is funded in part by the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) federal grant. Thank you to our local, state and federal partners preparing for this exercise!
Get to Know Your ECN Staff
911 Project Manager for ECN
Cordell joined the ECN team in Feb. 2024, as a 911 project manager. He leads key initiatives, including the statewide NG911 GIS migration to a hosted environment, the rollout of RapidSOS and Mapped ALI as state-provided service, and the implementation of new tools to support stakeholder engagement.
Additionally, Cordell works closely with partners across agencies to coordinate project delivery, improve vendor performance, and advance Minnesota’s NG911 efforts.
|
|
|
|
