My Last Post

                   Technology has many more uses that the average person cares to know about. The thing is, these technologies can be life changing and have a huge impact on the way people live. I know that even from the beginning of this semester to now, I am starting to look at technology and it’s uses from a different angle. One of the most significant tools which are changing the way people live is mobile apps. I currently own a”simple feature” phone device which has limited access to the thousands of apps that are now out. For this reason, I will be upgrading to either the Apple IPhone or an Android based device in the near future. There are amazing mobile apps now that can give valuable information about physical health, keep you organized, or even monitor the location of your children.
               Overall I have studied many different ways that technology has impacted the Emergency Services and the changes which have been made are truly amazing. One of the most remarkable stories I have read about technology was about a paraplegic man who was a firefighter who was unable to work until a highly advanced prosthetic leg was adapted to his body. This man is now on the job fighting fires and protecting his community. Not only is technology helping this man, but more importantly it is giving him the ability to help others.
             Another way that technology is helping those who serve is with GPS tracking. Many police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances are now equipped with GPS units which relay information about unit location to headquarters. The ability for emergency services supervisors to track unit locations is an extremely useful tool because if there is an incident that needs a police cruiser or ambulance “priority”, they will exactly where the closest unit is. Some calls are extremely time sensitive and every minute could make a difference. This technology is helping to reduce those crucial minutes on the streets.

                I think that overall people need to get more involved with discovering how technology can have a positive impact on their lives.  I have just explained two great examples of how technology has made a big impact on our society, but lets not stop there.  I think that technology should be more integrated in schools and in the work setting.  Our country always prides itself on being the most advanced and modern nation out there, however I feel like we are falling short when it comes to technology that the average American has access to.  The technology world is moving fast and we (the average citizen) need to keep up with it.

                     I have learned a great deal in this class and I’m glad I had the opportunity to take it.  Hopefully more people can have the same opportunity that I have had to learn about the devices and apps out there to improve their lives.  This will be my last blog post here, however I plan on continuing my studies on Emergency Services and technology alike.  I’m excited to see which new devices and apps will come out in the future and look forward to benefiting from the life changing differences they can make.  -Andrew