Computer-Aided Dispatch Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real CED practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Computer-Aided Dispatch Systems flashcards as text
Which CAD feature helps ensure that a unit responding to a hazardous materials incident has the correct protective equipment information before arrival?
Answer: Premise alert / hazmat flag attached to the incident address
Premise alerts and hazmat address flags pre-load critical safety and hazard information so responding crews are warned before they arrive on scene.
What is the role of 'incident type codes' in a CAD system?
Answer: They standardize call classification, drive resource recommendations, and enable statistical reporting
Incident type codes categorize each event consistently, allowing the CAD to recommend appropriate resources and generate accurate performance and workload statistics.
A dispatcher is working a major traffic collision with multiple patients. CAD shows no available ALS units. What should the dispatcher do?
Answer: Initiate mutual aid, upgrade the closest BLS unit, and notify a supervisor
When ALS resources are unavailable for a life-threatening incident, dispatchers must exhaust all options including mutual aid and supervisor notification rather than delaying response.
What is a CAD system's 'recommended response plan' or 'dispatch algorithm'?
Answer: A pre-configured set of units and resources automatically suggested based on incident type and location
Dispatch algorithms use incident type, priority, and location data to auto-suggest the appropriate type and number of resources needed for each call.
Why is it important for a dispatcher to add detailed free-text notes to a CAD incident in addition to selecting incident type codes?
Answer: Free-text notes capture nuances, caller statements, and situational details that codes alone cannot convey to responders
Incident type codes categorize events broadly, but free-text notes provide critical specifics—such as weapon descriptions, medical history, or access issues—that responders need.
What does the term 'CAD failover' or 'fallback mode' refer to?
Answer: A backup system or procedure that maintains dispatch operations if the primary CAD system goes down
CAD failover ensures continuity of operations by switching to a backup server, offline mode, or paper-based procedures when the primary system is unavailable.
Which of the following actions in a CAD system best documents a dispatcher's decision to send additional resources beyond the standard response plan?
Answer: Adding a supplemental unit to the incident and entering a free-text note explaining the reason
Adding units and documenting the rationale in the CAD notes creates a transparent, time-stamped record of dispatcher judgment that supports quality assurance review.