New system helps Saskatoon firefighters get to scenes quicker, more informed

People in Saskatoon and surrounding communities can expect a quicker response during emergencies thanks to a new system at the fire department.

Around a month ago, the Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) launched its updated Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) software.

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It replaced a nearly 20-year-old system, “that was no longer supported,” according to Deputy Chief for Fire Operations and Emergency Communications, Rob Hogan.

This change was instigated by a federal mandate, which required all 9-1-1 services to transition to the NG9-1-1 network by 2027.

So, in May 2025 SFD launched NextGen 9-1-1, “upgrading its emergency call system from older telephone technology to a modern, internet-based platform,” according to an SFD media release. It’s made emergency calls quicker and more reliable.

With the upgrade to the telephone system, “it became essential for the SFD’s CAD software to keep pace,” the release continued, since the older software wouldn’t be able to support advancements in the new call system.

The result is new CAD software designed to work alongside NextGen 9-1-1.

“One of the major differences is how the system works,” Hogan said.

The new CAD, “operates off a platform through the internet, so it gives us the ability to operate it essentially anywhere in the city –anywhere that has a secure network connection,” he said.

It also gives dispatchers more accurate information when 9-1-1 calls come in.

“The new system operates off GIS or GPS from the telephones, so we’re able to get that information translated into real-time data to give to our apparatus,” Hogan explained.

Dispatchers operate CAD, taking calls from the public and converting the information into the software, helping them formulate a response plan.

According to the release, with the upgraded software they’re able to develop a more “holistic view of each incident,” improving their knowledge of an emergency and their resource management, in terms of deploying firefighters.

It’ll mean that the right resources can get to the emergency sooner, based on the release.

When asked how this will impact everyday people, Hogan admitted, “this is all back-end stuff for the fire department.”

“They will notice, though, I think…a quicker response and the ability for fire crews to have more situational awareness when they arrive on scene,” he said.

The new system, “gives our firefighters real-time information on what’s going on,” Hogan said, with crews understanding what’s happening while en route and on scene.

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