First real-world implementation of video-based emergency calls (VEC) in Germany: from vision to reality.

Schmidtpott, Henning; Reiser, Felix; Lachfeld, Erik; Heinrich, Sebastian; Ganter, Julian

doi:10.1016/j.resplu.2026.101398

Dispatch & triage

First real-world implementation of video-based emergency calls (VEC) in Germany: from vision to reality.

Henning Schmidtpott, Felix Reiser, Erik Lachfeld, Sebastian Heinrich, Julian Ganter

Resuscitation Plus · 2026-06-29 · Implementation & quality improvement

Read at publisher · PubMed

Abstract

Emergency call handling relies primarily on verbal information, which is often constrained by stress, language barriers, and limited situational awareness. This article describes the conceptual design and real-world implementation of video-assisted emergency calls (VEC) at the Freiburg dispatch center (Public Safety Answering Point, PSAP). Building on longstanding experience with innovative digital dispatch solutions, the Freiburg system integrates real-time video as a dispatcher-controlled, supplementary information channel, next to the voice call, within existing emergency call workflows. The approach is characterized by defined cases, standardized activation procedures, dedicated dispatcher training including psychological safeguards, and a security-focused IT architecture separated from critical dispatch infrastructure. The Freiburg model demonstrates a structured, pragmatic, and scalable pathway for responsibly integrating live video into emergency dispatch operations.

First real-world implementation of video-based emergency calls (VEC) in Germany: from vision to reality.

Abstract

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