When it comes to emergency services, having a reliable and efficient communication system that operates appropriately is crucial. This is where the 933 emergency calling test service can come into play, helping you ensure that when a corporate telephone user dials 911, their call is routed correctly and the identification information transmitted is accurate. In this episode of “Did You Know”, I’ll dive into exactly what the 933 service is, how it functions, its similarities and differences with the 911 network, and its role as a diagnostic tool to help verify address information.
What is the 933 Emergency Calling Test Service?
The 933 service is a special, non-emergency number in some carrier networks that users can use to test their phone system for proper configuration when making an emergency call. It is designed to validate that the automatic number identification (ANI) and automatic location identification (ALI) information, which includes the critical ‘Address Line 2’ field, is accurate when transmitted to the actual emergency services network.
How Does 933 Function?
When you dial 933, the call should simulate a 911 call within the phone network. However, instead of being connected to a 911 Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) operator, the system intercepts the call as the point just before that last mile routinmg, and sends the caller to a special IVR that will read back the ANI/ALI information that would be sent to the 911 calltaker. This allows individuals and organizations to confirm that their address and call-back information will be correctly transmitted during an actual emergency, and since the call never reached 911 itself, users can test whenever and as much as they want without fear of tyin up the real 911 network.
Similarities and Differences With 911
The 933 test call is designed to be as close to a 911 call as possible, with a few critical exceptions:
- Routing and Handling: Both 933 and 911 calls are handled within the same infrastructure, meaning the call should traverse the same path through the carrier network.
- ANI/ALI Delivery: The information sent to the PSAP in a 911 call is read back to the caller in a 933 call, ensuring the data is transmitted correctly.
- Intended Use: 911 is for real emergencies, while 933 is a test service to verify the information before an actual emergency occurs.
Address Verification
Address verification is one of the primary functions of the 933 service. When a call is placed, it confirms the physical location details provided by the caller’s phone system, and the network databases include information such as:
- Primary Address Information: This is the main address associated with the calling party.
- Address Line 2: A critical detail that often includes suite numbers, apartment numbers, or specific locations within a building.
- Callback Number: Provides the 911 calltaker with the appropriate number to reach the calling party or security if any questions arise.
The accuracy of this information is vital for emergency responders to locate the caller quickly during an emergency.
Potential for Bad Results and False Positives
Despite its effectiveness, the 933 service can yield incorrect results if the Multi-Line Telephone System (MLTS) is not programmed correctly. Here’s an example how this often occurs:
- Different Routing: If the 933 call takes a different path through the network than a 911 call, it may result in different ANI/ALI information being transmitted.
- Carrier Network Manipulation: Certain elements in the carrier network might alter the caller ID information, rendering the test invalid and ineffective.
To mitigate these risks, it is essential to ensure that the entire call path for 933 mirrors that of a 911 call, except for the dialed number.
This setup will provide assurance that in the event of an actual emergency, the call and associated information will be routed as tested, enabling emergency services to respond properly and efficiently.
933 – It’s a good thing
The 933 emergency calling test service is a crucial tool in the realm of emergency communications. It allows for the proactive verification of the information necessary for first responders to act effectively in an emergency. By understanding and utilizing this service correctly, organizations and individuals can ensure that in the moment of crisis, their call for help is heard accurately and promptly.
Remember, while 933 is a test service, 911 is for real emergencies. It is advisable to regularly check and maintain your MLTS configurations to prevent any discrepancies during critical moments. Also, not all carriers support the 933 test service, and others may have it available, but charge for the service. Be sure to inquire BEFORE you test, and establish any configuration details ahead of time.
Stay safe, and take proactive steps to ensure your emergency calling capabilities are always up to the mark. If you find these articles useful, please like and subscribe so you’ll be notified if new content as it is published.
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