NON VERBAL COMMUNICATIONS

 TTY or TDD

​

PURPOSE

To establish a standard procedure for receiving calls via TTY (teletypewriter) or TDD telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD).

 

SCOPE

This guideline applies to all Communicators.

 

GENERAL INFORMATION

1. The deaf caller will communicate with the Dispatch Centre using UPPER CASE characters.

2. The abbreviation “GA” (go ahead) shall be used to complete any statement or question.

3. If an error in typing occurs, type “XXXX” to acknowledge the mistake and simply re-type.

 

PROCEDURE

1. The deaf community will call Communications for all emergencies within the region.

2. The call will be received on COMM RESPONSE CAD (https://www.commresponse.com/firecad).

   1. Select the TDD/TTY from CALL SOURCE on CAD.

   2. Click the TTY icon next to the CALL SOURCE to display the prompt screen to transmit messages via the INCIDENT NOTES.  There are currently six default messages asking the nature and location of the emergency.

   3. After all pertinent information has been collected; assure them that the agencies are responding.

   4. To disconnect the caller, type in “sk” (stop keying) 

   5. Dispatch any fire calls in the normal manner.

 

COMMON ABBREVIATIONS

Q GA Question Go Ahead (awaiting a response from a question you have asked)

GA go ahead

PLS please

ANS answer

SK stop keying

RPT repeat

MSG message

NBR number

 

RESPONSIBILITY

It is the responsibility of all Communicators to comply with the procedures set out in this guideline.