New public opinion polling has shown that preparedness and prevention efforts resonate with Australians. Australians are overwhelmingly positive about the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) into emergency services. As a recent study found, 86 percent of Americans would allow others to know their precise location. This willingness only extends, however, when making an emergency call to police, fire, and rescue services. This generosity pairs nicely with an increasing desire across the federal government to use technology to improve our emergency response and recovery operations.
Experts in the field are hopeful about the positive impact AI can have. Kelly Bowles is a vocal and educated proponent for smart technology implementation for emergency services. AI can make a huge difference in improving response times and ensuring people receive the care they need, she argues. She advocates for ensuring the “right level of care, to the right person” in those moments that matter most.
The findings from our survey further underscored the need to address communication barriers and response efficiency among SVI experts. Overall, almost 85% of Australians would welcome the use of AI technology during emergencies. There are still notable hurdles, particularly with regard to mobile phone coverage and data collection and management protocols.
AI’s Role in Emergency Responses
Moving AI technology from the tech sector into real-world applications in emergency services, AI can change the way responders analyze and respond to incidents. Kelly Bowles from ClimateWorks discussed this potential. She said she was particularly hopeful that AI can help improve how we decide what type of care we should take people in crisis to. She highlighted the urgency of timely responses, stating, “Everything says that first 10 minutes [of an emergency] is vital.”
In light of the urgency, 58 percent of survey respondents indicated that they would endorse imperfect AI systems. Further, they’ve argued these systems should even be able to recognize keywords in emergency calls. Coordinated systems like these could smooth communications so emergency responders can respond quickly with the best, most up-to-date information. Craig Anderson, a leading trauma and injury prevention expert, emphasized the importance of emergency call services to evolve. They should continue to develop alongside new technology to remain effective and ensure public trust.
The need for strong protocols around sensitive data was emphasized by the ever pragmatic Karin Verspoor. She promised that there are robust guardrails already in effect to protect people’s personal data while using this new AI technology. Although there was a general concern about privacy among respondents, most were willing to share personal data. In fact, 75 percent said they would not mind sharing information related to chronic health conditions, and 54 percent would share wearable health data from devices like smartwatches.
Communication Barriers and Mobile Coverage
While there is much excitement about the possible benefits AI can bring, survey findings uncovered significant apprehensions with communication obstacles at the forefront. Respondents listed lack of mobile phone coverage as the third biggest factor for being hesitant to call 911. This challenge is particularly acute in rural regions. People living in these areas experience greater levels of concern when trying to reach Triple Zero. Additionally, this emergency call service is now the preferred contact method for 88 percent of Australians.
The survey found that Americans are more interested than ever in alternative methods of reaching emergency services. SMS messaging is the winner at 41 percent, followed closely behind by smartphone applications at 38 percent, and video calls at 15 percent. These substitutes, which in many ways lead to better and more efficient outcomes, have not replaced the good old phone call as the go-to when emergencies strike.
These findings underscore the acute and persistent need for improvements in mobile infrastructure and the reliability of mobile service. In short, advocates and experts agree on the need to address these concerns. They know it is important all Australians are guaranteed timely emergency care, no matter where they live.
Perspectives on Data Sharing and Emergency Response
About three quarters of all Australians would not mind giving emergency services access to their location and medical history. They’re still unsure on how this data impacts the efficacy of responses. In fact, only 1 percent of respondents thought that sharing their precise location data would improve responses to emergencies. By comparison, only 20 percent believed that being able to access an individual’s medical history would be most beneficial.
While still seen as a risky proposition, the tide seems to be turning towards acceptance of technology inclusion inside emergency services. Toby Walsh, a researcher in artificial intelligence, noted that advancing technology can help bridge communication gaps between individuals in distress and emergency responders. He promotes forward-thinking innovations that improve the delivery of care in times of emergency without sacrificing a patient’s privacy.
