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GIS Unit
The intent of the Cherry Hill Fire Department in creating a GIS, or Geographic
Information Systems, Unit, was to expand its service to the community through
technology. After just two short years of implementation, the Cherry Hill Fire
Department is the only fire department in the area using this cutting edge technology
to respond to calls, view comprehensive site data, and facilitate critical department
resource planning by evaluating response patterns and demographic data.
What is GIS?
Geographic Information System technology is computer software that displays
geographic features much like a map. The glaring difference is that unlike a
static paper map that contains limited data, a GIS map can contain any number
of "data layers". It is so dynamic; it allows the user to turn these
layers on and off, displaying only the crucial information needed in an emergency.
It transforms the firefighter from someone just viewing a map to an analyst
using critical map data.
 How
does the Cherry Hill Fire Department use GIS?
GIS dramatically increases the Fire Department's ability to respond more quickly
and efficiently to an emergency incident. With touch-screen laptop computers
installed in the cabs of all our frontline firefighting vehicles, GIS allows
the fire officer access to necessary information in seconds. By simply entering
an address, the firefighters can now see; the local area they are responding,
the quickest route there and all the surrounding fire hydrants. All fire hydrant
locations have been collected to within a meter's accuracy using a GPS (Global
Positioning System) unit.
 Once
zoomed in to the area, the GIS program affords the fire officer a view to specific
site data for any of our commercial properties, including; schools, elderly care
facilities, and places of worship. This data includes emergency contact information,
location of the buildings utilities (of significant importance in a fire or emergency),
structural features, and any special hazards in the property. A click of one more
button and the firefighters can study a detailed computer produced floor-plan
drawing showing them the building's layout, the locations of doors and windows,
roof access and more.
 Through
evaluation of historical incidents and response patterns, GIS enables the Cherry
Hill Fire Department to view patterns to better understand the protection needs
of the community. These studies facilitate better planning with regards to fire
station locations and education by Fire Prevention Specialists for target groups
within Cherry Hill.
This technology is great example of the Cherry Hill Fire Departments unwavering
mission to "Deliver Excellence" to the citizens of Cherry Hill. Using
technology like GIS is just a natural step.
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