PURVIS Fire Station Alerting SystemTM

Automating the alerting process

  • At the 911 Dispatch/Comm Center
  • At the Station
  • On the Go

Alerting Solutions for Radio Communications

The PURVIS Fire Station Alerting System™ integrates first responders into the alerting process via multiple channels, including radio and pager, cell phone, and/or smartphone leveraging voice, text, and data. When it comes to radio communications specifically, our system can support as many channels or talk groups as your station or department currently uses or requires.

The PURVIS FSAS enhances radio communications via: 

  • Automated text-to-speech communications that can be multicast over the existing voice network
  • Intelligent configuration that directs notifications to remote personnel who need them based on their location, availability, time of day, and the type of incident

The PURVIS Fire Station Alerting System™ offers various options to fit your system requirements and budget. View all of our available hardware, components, and features below and save your selections for future reference via the Summary tab where you can email & download all of your preferences.

Automated Dispatch Overview

The PURVIS FSAS integrates seamlessly with a community’s computer-aided dispatch system (CAD) to automatically and nearly instantaneously deliver key incident details to necessary Fire and Rescue personnel. The PURVIS FSAS uses proven technology to convert dispatch data to natural sounding speech that is clear and easily understood. Automated announcements can be automatically broadcast over an existing radio network and simultaneously delivered to specific fire stations needed for a call. Key features include:

  • Instantaneous delivery of incident notifications
  • Automated Text-to-Speech technology that allows system administrators to quickly and easily modify pronunciations
  • Integration with VHF, UHF, 700MHz, 800MHz, and P25 radio systems to provide automated voice, analog tones, digital tones and data transmission via radio
  • Messaging and manual back-up alerting capabilities
  • Built-in system management and monitoring
  • High-availability design and implementation
View Features

Automated Dispatch (Servers)

The “brains” of the PURVIS FSAS, the Central Server maintains connectivity and configuration information, processes CAD data to provide automated dispatch over radio and to the fire stations, and self-monitors for system health and status. While it is possible to install the FSAS with a single server, the addition of a second server provides a superior level of redundancy. With two servers deployed, both operate simultaneously in “active-active” mode. In the event of planned or unplanned downtime of one, the system automatically notifies support personnel while seamlessly continuing all operations from the second server.

Central Servers can be physical servers, virtual servers, or a hybrid combination using one of each.

Physical Servers
  • Capable of supporting 100+ of stations
  • Can be installed on your site in location(s) of your choice
  • Easily expand to support a virtually unlimited number of stations
  • Can be physically separated for geographic redundancy
Virtual Servers
  • Capable of supporting 100+ stations
  • Expand to support a virtually unlimited number of stations
  • Host virtually with no need to buy, install and maintain separate hardware
Hybrid (Physical & Virtual Servers)
  • Leverage existing resources to run PURVIS FSAS software
  • Provide the same active/active level of redundancy as two physical servers or two virtual servers
  • Capable of supporting 100+ stations
  • Expand to support a virtually unlimited number of stations

CAD Interface

For a fully automated alerting process, the PURVIS FSAS communicates with your CAD system. The CAD interface is what makes that communication possible. PURVIS engineers have deep experience interfacing the PURVIS FSAS with a variety of CAD Systems, including but not limited to: NexGen, Hexagon/Intergraph, Motorola (Edge/Spillman, PremierOne, Premier), Central Square (Inform, Superion ONESolution, CommandCAD, IMC), Tyler Technologies/New World, EnRoute, Southern Software, ProPhoenix, and Alpine Software/RedAlert.

PURVIS currently offers three ways to interface the PURVIS FSAS with a CAD system:

Application Programming Interface (API)
  • Enable seamless communication between any CAD system, the servers, and the stations
  • Interface with numerous CAD providers, including Motorola, Hexagon, Central Square and many more
  • Allow for full-station automation functionality, including relays (turning devices on and off) and zoning
  • Support bi-directional communication between the PURVIS FSAS and the CAD system
File Directory
For agencies that don’t need/require a full API, the File Directory Interface provides a cost-effective solution.
  • The file directory interface makes use of a shared file folder
  • When a dispatch occurs, store files in the shared file folder, constantly monitored by the PURVIS FSAS
  • Upon receipt of a new dispatch file, the system will automatically receive and automate an alert accordingly
SMTP (Email) Interface
For agencies that don’t need/require a full API or are not allowed to integrate due to resource sharing, the Email Interface provides a cost-effective solution.
  • Push an email with CAD information to the central server following a dispatch
  • Allow for server to review the data within the email and automate the alert accordingly
  • Requires less resources to deploy quickly and efficiently

System Management

There are two ways authorized users can manage the PURVIS FSAS system:

FSAS Portal
  • Allow authorized users to access the PURVIS FSAS system from ANY computer using an internet browser and network connectivity to the Central Servers on the network
  • Allow for system administration or manual alerting
  • Configure automated voice pronunciations
  • Utilize existing computers and monitors; no need to purchase additional displays
Dispatch Management (DM) Console
  • Provide at-a-glance information about the PURVIS FSAS system and connected components like faults or active incidents, from a single touch screen screen
  • Allow access to system administration and manual alerting
  • Provide audible and visual alerts to notify of any network or system faults or failures
  • Install with existing hardware for cost savings

Station Alerting Overview

Within the fire stations, the PURVIS FSAS automates and streamlines station operations. All stations required for a specific event are alerted simultaneously via your existing network. Redundant alerting over radio, or a secondary data connection, ensures no loss of station alerting in the event of a network failure.

Key features include:

  • Supports integration with legacy station equipment
  • Clear Text-to-Speech technology
  • Configurable for day/night alert settings
  • Configurable alert tones
  • Zoning capabilities and ramped audio technology reduce stress on first responders
  • Incident data can be delivered to a variety of station devices, including printers, lights, and message boards
  • Microphone functionality to support in-station paging operations
  • Ability for station to acknowledge alert back to dispatch
View Features

Control

The FSAS streamlines operations and decreases response times at the station level by automating alerting throughout the station based on customer defined configurations.

Station Control Unit (SCU)
  • Configure and customize to meet all requirements, needs, and wants
  • Receive incident data and automatically activate/update any station electronics configured to the system
  • Connect with existing station devices, such as speakers, lights, and printers
  • Support additional contact relays for control over countless devices and peripherals
Station Control Unit - Essentials (SCU-E)
For departments that don’t need extensive peripheral devices and controls, the SCU – Essentials provides a cost-effective implementation.
  • Receive just the essential incident data needed and automatically activate/update station electronics configured to the system
  • Supports radio interface at station
  • Supports the essentials at the station, such as a touch screen peripheral display, message boards, thermal printer, LED lights, and push buttons
Remote Touch Screen
  • Display critical FSAS related information including detailed incident information, general announcement messages, FSAS system status, date/time and historical logs
  • Utilize simple, user-friendly interface that is intuitive and easy to use
  • Serves as a local module within the station to allow crew to acknowledge incidents, manually test the system, and turn radio audio on/off by zone
Audio Relay Expansion Module (ARXM)
  • Provide additional audio zone functionality and dry contact relays in a single module
  • Available in 4 and 8 audio zone models, and 8 and 16 dry contact relay models, or a combination
  • Configure to add modules as needed for further device control
  • Support zoning capabilities
Dorm Remotes
  • Utilize up to 8 push-buttons configured to correspond with unit types assigned to a given station
  • Configure the unit(s) that must be activated within a dorm
  • Designate unit types such as Engine, Ladder, Rescue, Hazmat, EMS, Chief, etc.

Connectivity

How do you want alerts delivered to the stations? The PURVIS FSAS offers options for both radio connectivity and IP connectivity. When multiple paths for connectivity are deployed, the PURVIS FSAS does not require a “primary” and “secondary” alerting path. Instead, the system can send alerts over all available connections simultaneously.

The PURVIS FSAS maintains active IP connectivity to all Central Servers, Radio Interfaces, Station Control Units, and other connected station components and devices. The status of each connection is monitored in real-time using “heartbeats.” This back-and-forth communication allows the FSAS to verify connectivity.

If the PURVIS FSAS detectes a down connection, an automatic notification is immediately sent to dispatch, station, and support personnel.

IP Connection
  • Connect directly with an existing IP connection (can support 2 IP connections to each station) in the fire station for IP communications with dispatch
  • Opt to utilize IP data over WAN, fiber, radio, cellular, or other connection types as a secondary IP alerting path
  • Utilize a secondary IP path, to send dispatch alerts via data over both IP paths allowing the system to immediately activate when the first alert reaches the station
Radio - Audio Only
  • Seamlessly connect the station radio to the PURVIS FSAS Station Control Unit to deploy radio audio over station speakers at any time
  • Utilize radio as an automated form of backup alerting, in the event of an IP network failure
  • Turn on-off as needed, by station zone, using the PURVIS FSAS Touch Screen

Audio Alerting

A key benefit to the PURVIS FSAS is its ability to integrate with a variety of commercially available, off-the-shelf (COTS) equipment and devices. In many cases, it is possible for a new FSAS to connect seamlessly to existing speakers and other audio devices, adding a cost-saving benefit to our clients.

Indoor Speakers
  • Available with integrated red LED light ring, white LED light ring, or a combination of both
  • Audio and integrated lighting can ramp in intensity
  • Mount on surface or recessed into a ceiling
  • Reduce startle effect and preserve night vision during a nighttime alert
  • Deploy in support of multiple zones around a station
  • Configure day/night settings to adjust volume depending on time of day
Bay/Outdoor Speakers
  • Enable greater volume for larger areas
  • When used in conjunction with an Ambient Noise Sensing device, speakers automatically adjust volume to be louder or softer depending on the amount of noise in a given area
  • Deploy in support of multiple zones within a station
  • Configure day/night settings to adjust volume depending on time of day
Omnidirectional Speakers
  • Omnidirectional speakers can be used in large, open areas where announcements need to be heard clearly throughout the space
  • When used in conjunction with an Ambient Noise Sensing device, speakers automatically adjust volume to be louder or softer depending on the amount of noise in a given area
Volume Control
  • Remotely control the volume of interior and exterior speakers
  • Configure to adjust the volume of one or more connected speakers
  • Adjust volume quickly, as needed
  • Fit within a single gang electrical box
Ambient Noise Control
  • Detect ambient background noise
  • Automatically increase the volume of any audio being played by associated speakers as needed
  • Ensure critical audio alerts are audible over any background noise

Visual Alerting

A key benefit to the PURVIS FSAS is its ability to integrate with a variety of commercially available, off-the-shelf (COTS) equipment and devices. In many cases, it is possible for the PURVIS FSAS to connect seamlessly to existing lights and other devices, such as printers, already in a station.

Tower Lights
  • Enable up to 5 individual color segments: white, blue, green, amber, and red
  • Customize colors to indicate responding units
  • Customize colors to activate automatically based on the type of alert
Red/White Lighting
  • Illuminate bunk rooms and hallways to provide safe egress at night with the standalone 3.5″ low-intensity light
  • Utilize red light at night to reduce the startle effect of a nighttime alert and preserve night vision
  • Support zoning features
Strobe Light
  • Illuminate bunk rooms and hallways to provide safe egress at night with the 3.5″ low profile light
  • Provide 450 lumens of a red visual alert
  • Support zoning features
Message Boards
  • Customize to display key incident alert information, including but not limited to address, cross streets, responding units, incident type, and turnout times
  • Display configurable idle screen if there is no active incident
  • Schedule web-based messages displaying content such as weather or traffic pages
  • Enable high visibility to enhance situational awareness
Turnout Timer
  • Display a wall-mounted timer that counts upward in 1-second increments once an incident in received at a fire station and stops once the incident clears at the station
  • Enable high glare visibility
  • Low maintenance
Printers
  • Instantaneously print key incident information prior to leaving the station with the rip-and-run style printer
  • Configure incident information to include incident type, address, and apparatus dispatched
  • Decrease the likelihood of failures associated with ribbons, toner, ink cartridges, and paper
Reader Boards
  • Available in 24″, 36″, 48″ and 60″ sizes
  • Display incident address, cross street, common name, responding units, incident type, and turn-out time
  • The LED displays are easily readable at great distances making them ideally suited for installation in drive bays or other large spaces where high visibility is required.

Other Station Devices

PURVIS offers additional station devices for the purpose of increasing security, situational awareness, and quick manual functions, such as system activation or incident acknowledgement.

Cameras
  • Install at the front door of the station
  • Configure camera to provide video/audio feed into the station, when integrated with a doorbell that has microphone and speaker functionality
  • Configure audio/camera feed to automatically route to the dispatch center if doorbell activation is not answered by station personnel
Doorbells
  • Install at a station’s public entrance
  • Connect to the PURVIS FSAS SCU or SCU-E
  • Upon activation, the PURVIS FSAS will alert the fire station via a configurable audible announcement that can be tailored to each installed doorbell
  • Weatherproof housing
Manual Push Buttons
  • Install at any location
  • Configurable for a variety of operations, including:
    • Alert acknowledgement, which will send a message to dispatch indicating acknowledgement
    • Manual system activation for station walk ups or emergencies
    • System tests
Unit Presence Detector
  • Provide automatic detection of an apparatus in a drive-bay location
  • Use information to automatically record turnout time on a unit by unit basis
  • Access turnout timer reports generated for each unit and each incident
Uninterruptible Power Supply
  • Provide backup power to essential PURVIS FSAS equipment (including SCU) in the event of a power outage at the station
  • Utilize various UPS options available to provide backup power, typically from 30-120 minutes or more
  • Monitor and alert the PURVIS FSAS when the system in a station is on UPS backup power

Radio Alerting Overview

A radio interface allows the PURVIS FSAS to communicate with your radio system for redundant and on-air dispatching purposes. PURVIS currently has three options for connecting the FSAS with radio systems:

  • Console Interface
  • Radio Interface Unit
  • Gateway Interface
View Features

Radio Interface

Console Interface
  • Interface supports Automated Voice Announcements containing incident details (address, cross streets, incident type, units dispatched, tach channels, etc.)
  • Digital and Analog Paging, including:
    • Call Alert
    • QCII
    • Paging Groups
    • DTMF
Radio Interface Unit
  • Send automated text-to-speech (TTS) announcements over the radio network
  • Send simultaneous alert to the fire station(s) over the IP alerting network
  • Support as many channels or talk groups as required
  • Send analog tones to activate radio paging devices such as Minitor Pagers and Federal Informer Receivers
Gateway Interface
  • Connects to the required Motorola Conventional Channel Gateway (CCGW)
  • Utilize the same functionality as the Radio Interface, but dedicated radios for each channel or talk group are not required
  • Support as many channels or talk groups as needed
  • Send analog tones to activate radio paging devices such as Minitor Pagers and Federal Informer Receivers

Mobile Alerting Overview

Situational awareness is critical when responders are on the go. With that in mind, the PURVIS FSAS offers the ability to transmit alerts and other incident information beyond the station via email, SMS, and our Mobile Application.

View Features

Mobile Interface

Email
  • Automatically transmits station and dispatch alerts and system trouble notices to relevant and pre-designated fire/EMS personnel
  • Configure to ensure emails are sent securely, automatically, and to the appropriate personnel
Mobile Application
  • Provide authorized personnel with incident information and administrative alerts via an iOS or Android device
  • View incident location on the user’s preferred mapping application, including turn by turn navigation
  • Access the incident timer
  • Alert personnel as individuals or groups, or by location
  • Configure availability modes for on/off duty status
SMS
  • Deliver critical incident information via SMS text messages to any iOS or Android device
  • Seamlessly connect to all major cell carriers

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Results We’ve Driven

200 +
Fire and EMS Departments use the PURVIS FSAS
27 million +
U.S. population protected by a PURVIS FSAS solution
1,000 +
Fire station installations of the PURVIS FSAS

Talk to an Expert

Regardless of your size or location, our 45+ years of experience in public safety uniquely equips us to understand our clients’ needs and challenges then develop, implement, and support solutions that bring peace of mind. We’d love to hear about some of your organization’s unique challenges and needs, and then design a custom-tailored plan to help address your concerns. Reach out if you’re interested in learning more or have questions for our team.

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