Law Enforcement Technology

FEB 2014

Issue link: https://let.epubxp.com/i/254119

Contents of this Issue

Navigation

Page 32 of 43

me that there is so much in texting that colors the conversation. Although most of the policy making revolves around serious issues, I can't help but think about the lighter side of texting. My mind goes back to the mis-sent, misunderstood, and just plain mistakes that happen in the world of texting, mistakes that will soon be a part of public safety telecommunications. Auto-correct I can't help but start with auto correct. Often these computer- corrected conversations have me laughing so hard I can't breathe and I'm not alone. DamnYouAutoCorrect.com gets thousands of hits every day as people around the world revel in the awkward situations people find themselves in when their smart phone thinks it's smarter than they are. I can envi- sion it now: (911 call via Text) "911 what is your emergency?" "I just saw flounder." "I'm sorry?" "Not flounder…fire. My neighbor's horse is on fire?" "Horse?" "House not horse. His house." "What is the address?" "I live on Vagina and he's right down the way." "???" "Virginia! Virginia! Ad infinitum. And we thought trying to decipher drunk was bad. I doubt anyone wants to see that public information request scrolling across the evening news screen, either. In all seriousness, someone needs to find a way to automatically turn off auto correct when dialing 911. Shouty capitals I know I can't be the only one with a pet peeve about shouty capitals. YOU KNOW WHEN SOMEONE TYPES YOU A MESSAGE THAT READS LIKE THIS. It really doesn't mat- ter what the message says. I find myself having to consciously drop my shoulders back down from around my ears after reading it and start breathing again. It just feels angry to me. It's hard to hear the message when I feel like I'm being yelled at. Sometimes people are yelling and sometimes they just don't like to take the CAPS lock off. Either way, taking 911 calls are hard enough without adding subconscious shout- ing. It could go the other way around, too. A PSAP could be programmed so that the text messages they send out are in all capitals, making community members feel like they are being yelled at as well. I can just imagine the news conversation and then lawsuit over emotional distress because the 911 operator was so insensitive and MEAN. Language This category can encompass so many things, but the two major parts of language that texting will highlight most will be the Internet slang and the lack of ability to communicate the Improves ventilation and enhances comfort, awareness, and alertness. TÜV approved. Custom-Fit for each application. Cargo Liner contains spills and dirt while the textured fnish controls load shifting. Meets FMVSS302 and are TÜV approved. Custom-Fit for each application. FloorLiner ™ fully protects your carpet and keeps fuids and debris away from your feet. FloorLiner ™ Automotive Accessories Side Window Defectors The most advanced interior foor protection available! Perfect for K-9 Units, Tactical Units, or general purpose use Call Our Law Enforcement Division Today 800-773-7787 WeatherTech.com ©2013 MacNeil IP LLC Cargo Liner Available in Light and Dark tints Canadian Customers: WeatherTech.ca European Customers: WeatherTechEurope.com LET_32-34_TextTroubles0214.indd 33 1/24/14 12:30 PM

Articles in this issue

Links on this page

Archives of this issue

view archives of Law Enforcement Technology - FEB 2014