HK1247480B - Method, system and medium for predicting the likelihood of a incident being chemical suicide - Google Patents

Description

Methods, systems, and media for predicting the likelihood that an event is a chemical suicide

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 14/723,947, filed May 28, 2015, entitled CHEMICAL SUICIDE PROTOCOL FOREMERGENCY RESPONSE, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Copyright Notice

©2016 Priority Dispatch Corp. Portions of the disclosure of this patent document contain material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. 37 CFR §1.71(d).

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to computer systems and methods for providing emergency protocol interrogation, instructions, and dispatch. More specifically, the present disclosure is directed to computer-implemented protocols that enable dispatchers to handle emergency calls in an accurate, consistent, and systematic manner by guiding dispatchers during interrogation and instructions for emergency callers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present disclosure are described, including various embodiments thereof, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG1 illustrates a block diagram of an emergency medical dispatch system according to one embodiment.

2 is a high-level flow diagram of an emergency medical dispatch protocol of an emergency medical dispatch system, according to one embodiment.

FIG3 is a user interface of an emergency medical dispatch system, according to one embodiment.

4A-4C illustrate a chemical suicide diagnostic tool user interface according to one embodiment.

5 is a high-level flow diagram of a method implemented by a chemical suicide scheduling protocol for a chemical suicide diagnostic tool, according to one embodiment.

FIG6 is a detailed flow chart of a method implemented by a chemical suicide scheduling protocol for a chemical suicide diagnostic tool according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Suicide by inhaling toxic vapors that can be produced from household chemical mixtures is often referred to as chemical suicide. Chemical suicide is harmful not only to the victim but also to unsuspecting bystanders, emergency responders, and others who may be exposed to the toxic vapors.

Emergency dispatchers are often the first responders to receive information about an incident. In their role of receiving emergency calls, emergency dispatchers are in a unique position and may be the first to recognize and/or report a chemical suicide. By identifying a chemical suicide, dispatchers can take steps and provide instructions to improve on-scene safety for both callers and emergency responders. Unfortunately, primarily due to their high turnover rate, emergency dispatchers are often inexperienced and unskilled.

Emergency dispatchers handle emergency calls reporting a wide variety of emergency situations. An automated emergency dispatch system, potentially implemented on a computer, can help even unskilled and inexperienced dispatchers prioritize received emergency calls and process the calls to generate an appropriate emergency dispatch response. The automated emergency dispatch system can achieve a consistent and predictable emergency dispatch response regardless of the dispatcher's experience or skill level, even though aspects of the emergency situation may differ from one call to the next.

While automated emergency dispatch systems can address many different aspects of receiving and handling emergencies, these systems may not be well-suited to handling certain types of unique situations. More specifically, automated emergency dispatch systems may not be well-suited to collecting and evaluating factors that may indicate a chemical suicide. Emergencies that may involve chemical suicide can pose a hazard to unsuspecting bystanders. Additional inquiries and instructions, and/or alternative emergency dispatch procedures or protocols, can improve safety at potentially hazardous scenes and facilitate the collection of information that can be used to identify chemical suicides.

Existing automated emergency dispatch systems are not capable of assisting or enabling dispatchers to handle emergency calls involving chemical suicides. Dispatchers who are unfamiliar with chemical suicide incidents and/or untrained in handling such incidents may be unable to compensate for the shortcomings of automated emergency dispatch systems. Inexperienced and/or unskilled dispatchers are often unable to initiate or assist with an appropriate medical response or provide effective advice to callers. Even highly skilled and experienced dispatchers may have little skill or experience in handling incidents involving chemical suicides simply because such incidents may be relatively rare compared to other types of reported incidents. Therefore, the present disclosure provides a method and system for handling emergency calls involving chemical suicides in a rapid, consistent, and predictable manner.

The embodiments of the present disclosure may be best understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like parts are indicated by like reference numerals. It will be readily understood that the components of the disclosed embodiments, as generally described and illustrated in the drawings herein, may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Accordingly, the following detailed description of embodiments of the systems and methods of the present disclosure is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure as claimed, but is merely representative of possible embodiments of the disclosure. Additionally, unless otherwise indicated, the steps of the method do not necessarily need to be performed in any particular order, or even sequentially, nor do the steps need to be performed only once.

In some cases, well-known features, structures, or operations are not specifically shown or described. Furthermore, the described features, structures, or operations may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. It is also readily understood that the components of the embodiments as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations.

Several aspects of the described embodiments will be presented as software modules or components. As used herein, a software module or component may include any type of computer instructions or computer executable code located in a memory device and/or a computer-readable storage medium. A software module may, for example, include one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions, which may be organized into routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform one or more tasks or implement specific abstract data types.

In some embodiments, a particular software module may include different instructions stored in different locations of a memory storage device, which together implement the functionality of the module. In practice, a module may include a single instruction or multiple instructions and may be distributed across several different code segments between different programs and across multiple memory devices. Some embodiments may be implemented in a distributed computing environment where tasks are performed by remote processing devices linked via a communication network. In a distributed computing environment, software modules may be located in local and/or remote memory storage devices. In addition, data that are bound or presented together in a database record may reside in the same memory device, or may span several memory devices and may be linked together in fields recorded in the database across a network.

Suitable software to facilitate implementation of the present invention has been provided by those skilled in the relevant art using the teachings and programming languages and tools presented herein, such as Java, Pascal, C++, C, database languages, APIs, SDKs, components, firmware, microcode, and/or other languages and tools.

The emergency dispatch system disclosed herein can be computer-implemented in whole or in part on a digital computer. The digital computer includes a processor for performing the required calculations. The computer also includes a memory in electronic communication with the processor to store a computer operating system. The computer operating system may include, but is not limited to, MS-DOS, Windows, Linux, Unix, AIX, CLIX, QNX, OS/2, and Apple. Alternatively, it is expected that future embodiments will be suitable for execution on other future operating systems. The memory may also store application programs including computer-aided dispatch (CAD) programs, automatic emergency dispatch protocols, and user interface programs. The memory may also include data storage devices. The computer may also include an output device, such as a display unit, for viewing displayed instructions and queries, and a user input device for entering response data.

FIG1 illustrates an emergency medical dispatch system 100 according to one embodiment. At a dispatch center 102, a dispatcher 104 may operate a computer 106 or other computing device. The computer 106 may include a memory 107 for storing protocols, modules, tools, data, and the like. The computer 106 may be configured to follow an emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 to enable the dispatcher 104 to quickly and consistently handle emergency incidents involving crimes or requiring medical assistance, as reported by a caller 118. Emergency calls requesting law enforcement or medical attention may report incidents that may involve a victim 117. It will be appreciated that in some situations and/or events, the caller 118 is the victim 117. In other situations, the caller 118 may be a second party (e.g., someone with the victim 117), a third party (e.g., someone not in the immediate vicinity of the victim 117), a fourth party (e.g., a reporting or referral agency), or a suspect (or perpetrator). The emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 may include a logic tree, preprogrammed queries or questions, possible responses to the queries from the caller 118, and instructions to the caller 118. The responses may be routed to subsequent preprogrammed queries and/or instructions to the caller 118. The emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 may also include a dispatch protocol 124 for guiding the dispatcher 104 in handling emergency calls involving specific situations and/or events. The dispatch protocol 124 may similarly include a logic tree, preprogrammed queries or questions, possible responses to the queries from the caller 118, and instructions to the caller 118. The dispatch protocol 124 may include a chemical suicide protocol 126 for quickly, consistently, and predictably handling emergency calls involving possible chemical suicides.

The response of the caller 118 is processed according to the predetermined logic of the logic tree of the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108. The predetermined logic can enable the emergency medical dispatch system 100 to provide the dispatcher 104 with information about the correct emergency medical dispatch response (e.g., provided by trained law enforcement officials or agencies and/or other emergency personnel). The predetermined logic can also enable the emergency medical dispatch system 100 to provide the dispatcher 104 with appropriate post-dispatch instructions for relay to the caller 118 before professional help arrives on scene. The predetermined logic can also enable the emergency medical dispatch system 100 to help the dispatcher determine the appropriate priority of the emergency call, including but not limited to the priority of the emergency call relative to other emergency calls and the emergency response level to provide for the reported incident or situation.

Although the emergency medical dispatch system 100 is disclosed and described herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other emergency dispatch systems and protocols are also contemplated, including but not limited to emergency medical dispatch systems and protocols and emergency fire dispatch systems and protocols. Exemplary embodiments of emergency dispatch systems and protocols are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,857,966; 5,989,187; 6,004,266; 6,010,451; 6,053,864; 6,076,065; 6,078,894; 6,106,459; 6,607,481; 7,106,835; 7,428,301; 7,436,937; 7,645,234; 8,066,638; 8,103,523; 8,294,570; 8,335,298; 8,355,483; 8,417,533; 8,488,748; and 8,670,526, which are incorporated herein by reference.

The computer 106 operates a determinant value calculator 110 to calculate a determinant value from the caller's 118 responses to the protocol questions. The determinant value can be selected from a set of pre-established determinant values so that emergency personnel are familiar with the determinant values and understand the meaning of each and the corresponding emergency response. For example, the determinant values may range from E-1 for a generally very serious emergency to Ω-2 for a generally less serious emergency. The determinant value may provide a classification code for the type and level of the incident.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the Determinant value is a combination of a Determinant Level (Alpha A, Bravo B, Charlie C, Delta D, Echo E, and OmegaΩ) and a numerical value. Generally, Ω-2 is the least severe call, while E-1 is the most severe call. Based on the Determinant Level, the appropriate emergency response is dispatched as dictated by the response protocol. For example, an Alpha-A call will typically be responded to by the next available law enforcement/medical personnel using the safest method of arrival that is reasonably possible. A Delta-D call will typically be responded to by any or all available law enforcement/medical personnel in the most urgent manner possible. An Echo-E call will typically involve a situation that could be immediately life-threatening and will be responded to in the most urgent manner available. Bravo-B and Charlie-C calls are intermediate level calls that are typically responded to in a commercial, orderly manner in accordance with specific departmental protocols. An Omega-Ω call will typically not be specifically responded to, but rather delegated to another person or agency. For purposes of this disclosure, Echo-E is generally abbreviated as E; Delta-D is generally abbreviated as D; Charlie-C is generally abbreviated as C; Bravo-B is generally abbreviated as B; Alpha-A is generally abbreviated as A; and Omega-Ω is generally abbreviated as Ω. Generally, lower determinant levels (e.g., numbers) in a determinant classification are more urgent than higher numbers. For example, an emergency dispatch call with a determinant value of D-1 is generally more critical, requiring a more urgent response, than a call with a determinant value of D-2. However, in some cases, the numerical determinant level within a determinant value may be used only to identify the type of call and not the criticality of the call. Moreover, if multiple determinant values can be assigned to a particular call, the more critical or higher determinant value is assigned. That is, the fact or aspect that will result in the most urgent response assigns the criticality determinant value to the call. For example, if the call relates to a burglary that occurred more than 30 minutes ago, but the suspect is still at or nearby, and the caller indicates that he or she is still in danger and feels his or her life is in imminent danger, then the assigned determinant value would be E-1 (due to imminent danger) rather than D-2 (suspect at or nearby) or B-1 (incident occurred more than 30 minutes ago).

Many calls for law enforcement and/or medical assistance are not true emergencies, so it is important to prioritize calls in a number of ways. First, truly urgent calls should be dispatched first. Second, if an agency has units with different capabilities, emergencies involving more serious problems can be sent to more skilled and advanced units (e.g., S.W.A.T. teams or bomb squads). Finally, if lights and sirens are not needed, they should not be used, thereby increasing the safety of everyone on the road and in emergency response vehicles. The computer 106 presents determinant values to generate an appropriate emergency dispatch response and/or establish the priority of the emergency call. The response can include dispatching professional law enforcement officers or other emergency personnel to the emergency scene. The protocol used should have been rigorously reviewed by a team of experienced law enforcement agencies and EMS public safety experts.

The determinant values can be provided to a computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system 112, which is a tool that dispatchers 104 can use to track and assign emergency response resources to handle emergency calls. The CAD system 112 can manage dispatch tools for handling emergency calls, including but not limited to the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108, communication resources (e.g., radio systems, Alpha pagers), mapping tools (e.g., global positioning system (GPS) technology, geographic information systems (GIS)), and vehicle positioning systems (e.g., automatic vehicle location (AVL)). The CAD system 112 can operate in whole or in part on a separate computer that communicates with the computer 106. In another embodiment, the CAD system 112 operates on the computer 106. The primary information used by the CAD system 112 is the location information of the incident and units, the availability of units, and the type of incident. The CAD system 112 can use third-party solutions such as E-911, vehicle location repeaters, and mobile data terminals (MDTs) to automate location and availability tasks. As previously described, the CAD system 112 may also facilitate structured calls for incident inquiries using the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 .

While many emergency calls are not true emergencies, all situations can benefit from expert evaluation and relevant instructions. Before professional help arrives on the scene, the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 can provide dispatcher 104 with instructions for caller 118 appropriate to the type of call, whether the call involves a complaint of vandalism or a homicide. These instructions may help expedite the work of law enforcement and/or other emergency personnel.

Computer 106 may include a reporting component 114 to statistically measure the performance of individual staff members and the overall performance of dispatch center 102. Dispatcher 104 may need to open a new case to record information received during a call. Once the call is complete, dispatcher 104 may close the case and save a case summary. The case summary can be retrieved later for evaluation and/or analysis. Reporting component 114 may determine statistics from the case summary and/or when the case is opened. Statistics may include compliance rates, call handling statistics, and peer-to-peer metrics.

The computer 106 may also include an input device 128, such as a keyboard, mouse, touch screen, laser pointer, or other input device, and an output device 130, such as a display monitor. The input device 128 receives input from a user (typically the dispatcher 104) and provides the input to the emergency medical dispatch system 100. The input may be provided to the computer 106, the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108, the diagnostic tool 120, and/or the CAD system 112. The output device 130 receives output from the emergency medical dispatch system 100 and displays or otherwise provides the output to the user. In another embodiment, the input device 128 and the output device 130 are provided by the CAD system 112.

Dispatch center 102 includes a communication device 116 (e.g., a telephone device) for answering emergency calls. In some embodiments, communication device 116 can be coupled to computer 106 to enable computer 106 to send and/or receive text messages and/or recognize dual-tone multi-frequency (DTMF) signals received at communication device 116. A call from caller 118 entering call center 102 can initiate the creation of an emergency call event. Dispatcher 104 identifies the call as requiring emergency medical dispatch, and emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 is accessed. Protocol 108, including dispatch protocol 124, can provide professionally written questions and/or instructions to help novice caller 118 report aspects of the incident and/or assess the condition of victim 117. Protocol 108 can also provide professionally written instructions to assist victim 117 before trained law enforcement and/or emergency personnel arrive. The instructions can be relayed by dispatcher 104 to caller 118 via communication device 116.

Some protocol queries or questions may be easy for caller 118 to answer, while other queries or questions may be more difficult to answer. For an untrained caller, it may be difficult to determine or answer certain diagnostic queries under the pressure of an emergency. Therefore, in addition to instructions, the emergency medical dispatch system 100 may provide one or more computer-implemented diagnostic tools 120. Diagnostic tools 120 can greatly improve information collection and intervention for emergency medical response situations and help save lives.

Diagnostic tool 120 can (via instruction from dispatcher 104) help dispatcher 104 and/or caller 118 when assessing the situation of victim 117. Diagnostic tool 120 can also be intervention tool, provides instruction caller 118 to intervene or take action to help victim 117 or otherwise change the instruction of the environment or situation of emergency. For clarity, diagnostic tool and intervention tool are usually all referred to as diagnostic tool in this article. Therefore, as diagnostic tool 120 of this article, diagnostic instruction, intervention instruction or diagnosis and intervention instruction both can be provided. No matter diagnostic tool 120 only provides diagnostic instruction, only provides intervention instruction, or provides diagnosis and intervention instruction both, diagnostic tool 120 provides consistent and reliable instruction, information collection and/or timing for specific emergency.

The diagnostic tool 120 is a computer-implemented software module that enables the dispatcher 104 to provide consistent, professional advice to assist the caller 118 with specific aspects of the emergency, such as determining vital signs. One benefit of the diagnostic tool 120 is computer-assisted timing technology for determining vital signs. In highly stressful situations, the diagnostic tool 120 provides the necessary resources for reading key vital signs. The diagnostic tool 120 can be stored in the memory of the computer 106 and launched and executed as needed. The diagnostic tool 120 can be embodied as a computer-executable software application and associated data.

The emergency medical dispatch protocol 108, including the dispatch protocol 124, may also call one or more diagnostic tools 120 to assist in the query and may be routed to the appropriate diagnostic tool 120 when needed. When directed according to the protocol, the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 may automatically, i.e., without the intervention of the dispatcher 104, initiate the appropriate diagnostic tool 120. This may occur when the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 reaches a diagnosis or assessment step in the logic tree. The emergency medical dispatch system 100 may also allow the dispatcher 104 to choose to call a diagnostic tool 120 as needed. An icon may be displayed in a toolbar or other convenient location on the user interface to allow the dispatcher 104 to initiate the corresponding diagnostic tool 120. One particular diagnostic tool 120 discussed herein may be a chemical suicide diagnostic tool 122.

Chemical suicide diagnostic tool 122 can be configured to improve the safety of caller 118 at the scene. By asking specific questions about the scene that do not require caller 118 to approach potentially hazardous chemicals, dispatcher 104 can gather information about the incident without putting caller 118 in danger. Chemical suicide diagnostic tool 122 can provide a warning about the dangers of the scene. Based on this warning, dispatcher 104 can advise caller 118 to evacuate the scene.

The chemical suicide diagnostic tool 122 can also be configured to advise emergency personnel that the emergency they are responding to may involve a chemical suicide. Advanced warning of an incident that may involve a hazardous chemical enables emergency personnel to take actionable preventative measures and be more vigilant of potential factors and information indicative of a chemical suicide. The presence of a possible chemical suicide can be communicated by adding a suffix to the determinant value. Specific details regarding the chemical suicide, such as the deviation category, can be communicated to emergency personnel through dispatcher-responder communications, which can include responder scripts.

The chemical suicide diagnostic tool 122 may be initiated from within, or at least in conjunction with, the processes of the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 and the dispatch protocol 124, including the chemical suicide protocol 126, to enhance and supplement the emergency call processing facilitated by the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108. The chemical suicide diagnostic tool 122 may be initiated automatically by the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 or manually by the dispatcher 104.

FIG2 is a high-level flow chart of the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 of the emergency medical dispatch system according to one embodiment. The protocol 108 may begin with a case entry protocol 202 that directs the dispatcher to gather initial information. One purpose of the case entry protocol 202 is to obtain sufficient information from the caller to allow identification of the chief complaint. Furthermore, the case entry protocol 108 may be considered the primary inquiry, as all calls may be processed through the case entry protocol 202 to gather initial incident information. The information received through the case entry protocol 202 may include the location of the incident, a callback number in the event of a disconnected call, the caller's name, and a description of the incident.

If the dispatcher receives and enters information that the incident is particularly critical for any reason (e.g., a caller in imminent danger, a sinking vehicle, a vehicle in rising floodwaters, or a vehicle that cannot be stopped due to a stuck accelerator), an emergency response is immediately dispatched 204 before the dispatcher proceeds with any further questioning or instructions. The emergency response dispatched 204 may be a maximum emergency response, including appropriately trained law enforcement and medical personnel. The level of danger of the incident is confirmed 206, and pre-arrival instructions are given 208. Pre-arrival instructions can be adjusted based on the specific incident and/or situation. Typically, the result of pre-arrival instructions that are correctly communicated (by the dispatcher) and executed (by the caller) may be a more calm and stable situation when emergency personnel arrive, and/or a reduced risk of injury or death to the caller. Pre-arrival instructions may help ensure safety and improve the effectiveness of the emergency response dispatched 204.

If the dispatcher receives information from the caller confirming that the incident is not critical (e.g., not an imminent danger), but the dispatcher lacks sufficient information to proceed directly to a dispatch protocol 124, the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 can be diverted to additional queries 210 designed to guide the dispatcher in gathering information from the caller so that the dispatcher can determine a chief complaint. If a chief complaint is determined, the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 can be diverted to the appropriate dispatch protocol 124 to address the chief complaint.

The dispatch protocol 124 can guide the dispatcher through secondary inquiries specific to the chief complaint. The dispatch protocol 124 can provide pre-written inquiries to enable a more organized and detailed understanding of the events transmitted to the emergency personnel. The pre-written inquiries can include pre-programmed queries focused on gathering information about the chief complaint. The pre-programmed queries provided by the dispatch protocol 124 can be referred to as "key questions" for the specific circumstances or conditions of the chief complaint. The pre-programmed queries presented can depend on the caller's response. The dispatch protocol 124 can utilize the diagnostic tool 120 to evaluate the collected information.

During the dispatch protocol 124, the dispatcher and/or the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 will gather information about the circumstances of the incident or emergency through inquiries and may dispatch an appropriate emergency dispatch response 214. The dispatch protocol 124 facilitates uniform and consistent collection of information about the emergency and delivery of an appropriate emergency dispatch response. The appropriate emergency dispatch response may be determined by a system of assigning determinant values as the protocol progresses (i.e., traverses) through the logic tree. The determinant values described above may, for example, range from E-1 for a generally very severe emergency to Ω-2 for a generally less severe emergency. In another embodiment, the range of determinant values may be different, such as from A-1 for a generally very severe emergency to E-5 for a generally less severe emergency.

After the appropriate emergency dispatch response is sent (e.g., law enforcement), the dispatcher can remain on the line with the caller to provide post-dispatch instructions 216 regarding what to do and what not to do until medical personnel and/or law enforcement arrive. Post-dispatch instructions 216 help stabilize the situation and expedite the work of the on-site responders. Post-dispatch instructions can include, for example, "Do not disturb anything at the scene, including weapons, tools, or objects found nearby," "Stay on the line and I'll tell you what to do next," and similar instructions.

FIG3 illustrates a user interface 300 for an emergency medical dispatch system, according to one embodiment. The emergency medical dispatch system user interface 300 allows a dispatcher to access the emergency medical dispatch protocol. The illustrated user interface 300 is shown as traversing the case entry protocol 202 of the emergency medical dispatch protocol 108 (described above with reference to FIG2 ). The emergency medical dispatch protocol may present a query 302 (or question) via the emergency medical dispatch system user interface 300. The query 302 is provided to the dispatcher to relay to the caller to collect information about the reported incident or emergency. The dispatcher and/or the emergency medical dispatch system may collect information in the form of a caller response to the query 302. The dispatcher may enter the caller response to the query into a response field 304 provided by the user interface 300. The response field 304 may include, for example, any of a number of suitable input field types, including, but not limited to, a text field, a text box, a menu, a drop-down menu, a drop-down selection box, a list, a button, a checkbox, a radio button, and/or a mixed field. For example, the text field for identifying the question may allow free-form input, but also provide the dispatcher with a list of suggestions that can be inserted into the text field by clicking and/or double-clicking an entry in the list. Response field 304 may correspond to information indicating one or more responses from the caller to query 302. In some embodiments, query 302 may change from interrogative form to assertive form after a response has been entered and/or when the cursor is not in the corresponding response field 304.

The caller response is typically relayed from the caller to the dispatcher via telephone. Information from the caller response can be input into the system by the dispatcher and can be used by the emergency medical dispatch protocol to determine subsequent queries 302 and instructions presented to the dispatcher. The caller response information can indicate the caller's observations of the event and/or the current situation. The emergency medical dispatch system can use the caller response information to generate an emergency dispatch response by appropriately trained emergency personnel. The information collected from the caller response can be used by a determinant value calculator to calculate determinant values that can be communicated to emergency personnel. Additional details regarding the emergency medical dispatch protocol and the user interface that interacts therewith can be found in the previously referenced U.S. patents.

The system user interface 300 can also provide one or more diagnostic tool startup input components 306. As shown above, one or more buttons can be provided on the user interface 300 as the diagnostic tool startup input component 306. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the diagnostic tool startup input component 306 can include components other than buttons, including familiar user interface components such as drop-down menus, drop-down selection boxes, lists, check boxes, and radio buttons. The diagnostic tool startup input component 306 enables the dispatcher to start a specific diagnostic tool. Although the dispatch protocol can automatically start a diagnostic tool based on the input entered by the dispatcher of one or more responses indicating the caller, the diagnostic tool startup input component 306 provides a way for the dispatcher to manually initiate the diagnostic tool (e.g., at any time at the dispatcher's discretion).

In the embodiment shown in FIG3 , the user interface 300 provides a chemical suicide diagnostic tool initiation input component 308. As shown, the chemical suicide diagnostic tool initiation input component 308 may comprise a button on the emergency medical dispatch system user interface 300. The button may include an icon, such as an image of a skull and crossbones, to indicate that the button is the chemical suicide diagnostic tool initiation input component 308 for manually initiating the chemical suicide diagnostic tool. In another embodiment, the button may include a label to communicate that the button is the chemical suicide diagnostic tool initiation input component 308.

4A-4C illustrate a chemical suicide diagnostic tool user interface 400 according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG4A-4C , the diagnostic tool user interface 400 provides the dispatcher with one or more instructions 402, structured classification input components 404a, 404b, an observation pane 406, a bystander symptom pane 408, a criteria summary pane 410, a recommendation field 412, an instruction pane 413, a return input component 414, and a reset input component 416.

The diagnostic tool user interface 400 is configured to help the dispatcher determine the possibility that a chemical suicide has occurred. When an emergency caller reports that a victim is suspected of or is in the process of committing chemical suicide, or otherwise reports observations that raise concerns that a victim may have committed chemical suicide, the appropriate level of emergency response may depend to a large extent on the possibility that a chemical suicide has occurred. The difficulty is that emergency callers are typically not skilled in identifying indicators of factors that determine or assess the possibility of a chemical suicide. This lack of caller skills may present safety issues because the caller may not be able to identify a dangerous situation and enter the structure where the victim is located. Similarly, the dispatcher may lack the skills and experience to correctly query and guide the caller to identify and measure indicators of factors that determine or assess the possibility of a chemical suicide occurring in the victim. In this case, the dispatcher's questions may cause the caller to enter a dangerous space.

According to the diagnostic tool user interface 400 of one embodiment of the present disclosure, pre-written questions can be provided to help identify indicators that can be used to determine whether chemical suicide has occurred. Indicators can include evidence observable at the scene, symptoms that callers and other bystanders are experiencing, and/or other signs indicating chemical suicide. The diagnostic tool user interface 400 receives input corresponding to or otherwise indicating various identified indicators, and uses the input to determine the possibility that the victim is committing or has committed chemical suicide. This determination can be transmitted to the dispatcher via the diagnostic tool user interface 400, and/or transmitted to the emergency dispatch system. By the following description of the illustrated embodiment of the diagnostic tool user interface 400, the manner in which the chemical suicide diagnostic tool can help determine the possibility of chemical suicide will become apparent.

The diagnostic tool user interface 400 may present one or more instructions designed to guide the dispatcher in using the tool. In the illustrated embodiment, the diagnostic tool user interface 400 provides an instruction 402 requesting the dispatcher to categorize the location into a structural category. Chemical suicide occurs when chemicals are mixed and inhaled in an enclosed space, such as a car or building. The indicators of chemical suicide may vary depending on the structure in which it occurs. Therefore, the diagnostic tool may function differently based on the structure in which the victim is located. If location information is obtained in advance during call processing, the victim's location information can be transmitted to the diagnostic tool by the emergency dispatch system. The diagnostic tool user interface 400 also provides one or more structural classification input components 404a, 404b to allow the dispatcher to provide information to the diagnostic tool. It is understood that if this information is unknown, the dispatcher may need to ask the caller the structure in which the victim is located. However, the configuration of the instructions 402 and structural classification input components 404a, 404b of the diagnostic tool user interface 400 provides the dispatcher with intuitive guidance for collecting and/or providing information about the victim's location to the diagnostic tool.

In the illustrated embodiment, the structural classification input components 404a, 404b are buttons that the dispatcher can click to quickly and efficiently specify the structure where the chemical suicide occurred. Figure 4A shows the diagnostic tool user interface 400 before the dispatcher provides the structural classification input to the diagnostic tool. The structural classification input components 404a, 404b include labels that clearly indicate to the dispatcher the information to be input by operating the buttons. For example, the first structural classification input component 404a includes the label "In Vehicle" to indicate that clicking this input component 404a inputs information that the victim is in a vehicle into the diagnostic tool. The second structural classification input component 404b includes the label "In Building/Building Structure)" to indicate that clicking this input component 404b inputs information that the victim is in a building or building structure into the diagnostic tool. It will be understood that in another embodiment, the structural classification input components 404a, 404b are not limited to buttons and may include, for example, familiar user interface components, including but not limited to text fields, text boxes, menus, drop-down menus, drop-down selection boxes, lists, buttons, check boxes, radio buttons, or any combination thereof.

Observation pane 406 presents one or more possible indicators 424 (Fig. 4B) of chemical suicide to the dispatcher. Possible indicators 424 can include questions that are intended to be relayed by the dispatcher to the caller to help the dispatcher guide the caller to identify evidence that the victim has committed chemical suicide. Possible indicators 424 can also include questions that are only for the dispatcher. Fig. 4 B shows a diagnostic tool user interface 400, which presents a list of possible indicators 424 in observation pane 406. In the illustrated embodiment, possible indicators 424 are presented in a list. It will be appreciated that other presentation forms are possible, including but not limited to sequentially presenting possible indicators.

Possible indicator 424 may generally relate to typical evidence surrounding a chemical suicide scene. This evidence may differ depending on the structure the victim is in. For example, a chemical suicide in a vehicle may present differently than a chemical suicide in a house. Furthermore, to protect the caller from danger, the evidence may be observed from a distance.

Fig. 4 B shows possible indicators 424 of chemical suicide occurring in a vehicle.As shown, the evidence shown by chemical suicide may include but is not limited to "notice or printed warning signs", "visible smoke", "smoky or foggy windows", "household cleaning products", "buckets, coolers or containers", "occupant wearing goggles", "occupant wearing gloves", "peculiar smell/bad taste", "tarpaulin covering all or part of the vehicle" and "all doors and windows closed".The specific indicators presented and the order in which they are presented may depend on the information previously input.In another embodiment, the indicators presented can depend on whether the caller has indicated other indicators presented.The diagnostic tool can traverse a logic tree that defines which indicators are presented in which order.

Bystander symptom pane 408 can also present one or more possible indicators 424. These indicators 424 can relate to symptoms that the caller or other bystanders are experiencing. Diagnostic tool user interface 400 can present these indicators to the dispatcher. The dispatcher may ask the caller if he/she is experiencing any symptoms. If the caller indicates that he/she is experiencing any symptoms, this may be further evidence that chemical suicide has indeed occurred and that the scene is potentially dangerous. Bystander symptom pane 408 can provide the dispatcher with a method to systematically and predictably determine whether the caller is in danger. For example, symptoms may include "dizziness", "lightheadedness", "abnormal breathing", "burning/irritated eyes".

A response input component 409 provided by the user interface allows the dispatcher to quickly enter the caller's response to questions about possible indicators 424 presented in the observation pane 406 and the bystander symptom pane 408. In the illustrated embodiment, the response input component 409 is a checkbox that can be clicked by the dispatcher to indicate that the caller observed that evidence. For example, if the caller observed a certain indicator, the checkbox can be selected by the dispatcher and a check mark will appear. It will be understood that in other embodiments, the response input component 409 is not limited to a checkbox and can include, for example, familiar user interface components including, but not limited to, a text field, a text box, a menu, a drop-down menu, a drop-down list, a drop-down selection, a box, a list, a button, and a radio button, or any combination thereof.

As indicators 424 are collected, the diagnostic tool can use the input to determine whether chemical suicide has occurred. This determination can be presented in the recommendation field 412, as described below.

Based on this determination, instruction pane 413 can present specific information to the dispatcher. For example, as shown in FIG4C , based on the input, the diagnostic tool has determined that there is clear evidence of chemical suicide. In the illustrated embodiment, this results in a warning appearing in instruction pane 413 indicating that the scene may be dangerous and that a chemical suicide is possible. Instruction pane 413 can also include instructions that the dispatcher can relay to the caller to increase the caller's safety. The information in instruction pane 413 can change based on the possibility of chemical suicide.

Referring again to Figures 4A-4C, and specifically to Figure 4C, the criteria summary pane 410 presents a concise record of the types of positive indicators received indicating that the victim may have attempted chemical suicide. The criteria summary pane 410 provides one or more record fields 418a, 418b (collectively, 418) that display a record of one or more types of indicators. The record displayed in the record fields 418a, 418b, for example, concisely conveys to a dispatcher the basis for the likelihood that the victim may have attempted chemical suicide. The record may be an objective value that quantifies factors that contribute to the determination that chemical suicide has occurred.

In the illustrated embodiment, multiple record fields 418 are presented to provide a record of indicators across multiple severity ranges. Some indicators of chemical suicide may be more conclusive than others, meaning that certain indicators are likely or more strongly indicative of the possibility that the victim has committed chemical suicide. For example, some indicators may be clear indicators because they can provide substantial certainty that the victim has committed chemical suicide. Records labeled "Clear Criteria" can help, for example, indicate to a dispatcher the number of these clear indicators present. A first record field 418a can present a record of clear indicators. Other indicators may be suspect indicators, which individually may not indicate chemical suicide, but the accumulation of multiple minor indicators can strongly indicate that a chemical suicide has occurred. A record labeled "Suspicious Criteria" can help indicate the number of suspect indicators. A second record field 418b can present a record of suspect indicators. Multiple record fields 418 can provide the dispatcher with insight into how and why the diagnostic tool reached a specific result. Multiple record fields 418 can provide a brief explanation of why chemical suicide is suspected.

As examples, clear indicators that are actually decisive and counted in the "clear criteria" record may include printed warning signs, visible smoke, sealed door gaps, household cleaning products, occupants wearing eye protection, and tarpaulin-covered vehicles.

As another example, suspicious indicators that, when accumulated, may strongly indicate chemical suicide and be counted in the "Suspicious Criteria" record may include smokey/foggy windows, buckets or containers, occupant gloves, strange/bad smells, and all doors and windows closed.

In the illustrated embodiment, the log field 418 provides a log of the operation of the diagnostic tool during operation. The log of the operation can allow the dispatcher to predict the results of the diagnostic tool, so that the dispatcher can prepare the next steps in handling the emergency call.

The recommendation field 412 provides the dispatcher with a recommendation and/or a determination made by the diagnostic tool as to whether the victim has or is committing chemical suicide. In FIG4C , the recommendation field 412 presents an indication stating “clear evidence” to indicate that the diagnostic tool has determined that there is significant evidence and/or a high probability that a chemical suicide has occurred. The recommendation field 412 may also present an indication stating “strong evidence” to indicate that the diagnostic tool has determined that there is some evidence of chemical suicide. The recommendation field 412 may also present an indication stating “partial evidence” to indicate that the diagnostic tool has determined that there is little evidence of chemical suicide but that there is still a possibility. The recommendation field 412 may also present an indication stating “no evidence” to indicate that there is insufficient evidence or no evidence determined or found to determine that a chemical suicide has occurred. It will be understood that other recommendations are possible, including but not limited to “negative” to indicate that the victim did not commit chemical suicide.

A scoring formula may be included to score the criteria and determine the recommendations to be presented. As an example, the following scoring formula may be used by the tool to determine the recommendations to be presented in the recommendation field 412:

Clear evidence if:

There are two clear criteria, or

There are three suspicious criteria indicators, or

There is one clear criterion indicator and one or more clear criterion indicators.

Competent evidence if:

There is a clear criterion indicator,

or

There are two suspicious criteria indicators.

No evidence if:

There are no clear criteria indicators and at most one questionable criteria indicator.

Other scoring formulas may also be used. Scoring formulas may also change and evolve over time as the accuracy of outcome prediction is evaluated and improvements are made in diagnosing chemical suicide.

A return input component 414 is also presented to the dispatcher via the diagnostic tool user interface 400 to close the diagnostic tool and/or the diagnostic tool user interface 400 and return processing and/or control to the medical dispatch protocol. In the described embodiment, the return input component 414 is provided as a button that the user can click and is labeled "Return to Question." The dispatcher clicks the return input component 414 button to close the chemical suicide diagnostic tool. In another embodiment, the return input component 414 can also signal the diagnostic tool to transmit the recommendations and/or information provided about the victim's diagnostic instruction response to the emergency medical dispatch protocol and/or the determinant value calculator before the diagnostic tool is closed.

A reset input component 416 may also be provided by the diagnostic tool user interface 400 in Figures 4A-4C to allow the dispatcher to reset the diagnostic tool. The reset input component 416 may clear all dispatcher-entered inputs from the diagnostic tool user interface 400 and/or the diagnostic tool. The reset input component 416 also moves the progression back to the beginning along the logic tree, effectively restarting the diagnostic tool.

FIG5 is a high-level flow chart of a method 500 implemented by a chemical suicide dispatch protocol for a chemical suicide diagnostic tool according to one embodiment. The chemical suicide diagnostic tool can be initiated (e.g., started) from within the emergency dispatch protocol. The emergency dispatch protocol can automatically start the tool based on input received by the emergency dispatch protocol indicating that a victim may have committed chemical suicide. The chemical suicide diagnostic tool can also be manually started by a dispatcher as needed. The chemical suicide diagnostic tool may present a user interface upon startup.

Based on pre-written inquiries, the user interface can present pre-programmed queries 504. The pre-programmed queries can be directed to determining the likelihood of chemical suicide while maintaining the safety of the caller and other bystanders. The dispatcher asks the caller questions according to the pre-programmed queries, and receives 506 data from the dispatcher, as relayed from the caller. The data received 506 can correspond to the caller's response to the pre-programmed queries. The data can be used to determine subsequent questions and/or determine instructions to provide to the dispatcher. The received data is also used by the diagnostic tool to determine 508 the likelihood of chemical suicide and/or update an already determined prediction value. Intermediate prediction values can be generated as information is received and processed, and a final prediction value can be determined after all information has been received and processed.

The diagnostic tool can provide 510 appropriate instructions for the dispatcher to relay to the caller. The instructions can include post-dispatch instructions for the caller to help stabilize or otherwise improve the situation, increase scene safety, and expedite the work of on-site emergency personnel. A database can be accessed to generate appropriate instructions. Call records are stored 512 for historical reporting, for reviewing and analyzing dispatcher performance, and for ongoing quality assurance control. Call records can include, but are not limited to, queries, responses, and predicted values.

FIG6 is a detailed flow chart of a method 600 implemented by a chemical suicide dispatch protocol for a chemical suicide diagnostic tool, according to one embodiment. The chemical suicide protocol is typically initialized from a previous protocol. Specifically, the chemical suicide protocol can be initiated from the case entry protocol. It will be appreciated that the chemical suicide protocol can be accessed in various ways. In an embodiment, the chemical suicide protocol can be initialized once the emergency dispatch protocol has traversed all or part of the case entry protocol and has been diverted to the chemical suicide protocol as the appropriate dispatch protocol for handling the call's main complaint. Furthermore, upon receiving an indication that a chemical suicide incident is being reported, the emergency dispatch protocol can be automatically diverted to the chemical suicide protocol immediately.

The chemical suicide protocol can initiate a chemical suicide diagnostic tool to predict the likelihood of a chemical suicide event. To predict the likelihood, the chemical suicide diagnostic tool can provide the dispatcher with a series of preprogrammed queries. The preprogrammed queries can be considered as part of a prewritten query based on the chemical suicide protocol logic tree. The flowchart of FIG6 can be considered as depicting the logic tree according to one embodiment. The preprogrammed queries presented as part of the preprogrammed queries can depend on the input entered by the dispatcher to be described. The preprogrammed queries can be considered as a set of preprogrammed queries presented based on a path traversed through the logic tree.

In pre-written queries, the chemical suicide protocol can receive input from the dispatcher corresponding to the instructions and pre-programmed queries, as explained above with reference to Figures 4A-4C and Figure 5. The input can be received substantially in real time as the dispatcher provides the input. Alternatively or additionally, because the information sought by the chemical suicide protocol can have been previously obtained from the dispatcher via the case entry protocol and/or other parts of the dispatch protocol, the input can be received from the emergency dispatch system. Alternatively or additionally, the input can be received from another diagnostic tool. Although an explicit step for receiving information is not shown in Figure 6, a person of ordinary skill will recognize that input can be received at various points in the method 600 of the chemical suicide protocol.

The dispatcher-entered input relates to emergency calls and/or reported events. The dispatcher-entered input may affect the path traversed through the logic tree. Various paths through one embodiment of the chemical suicide protocol logic tree will now be described, including corresponding pre-programmed queries and potential dispatcher-entered inputs that may be considered.

The dispatcher may be presented 602 with the option to specify the type of structure where the incident occurred. This may prompt the dispatcher to ask the caller to specify the structure if he/she has not already done so. The chemical suicide protocol may present possible responses such as "in a vehicle" and "in a building/building structure." Input may be received through selectable buttons such as structure classification input components 404a and 404b (see FIG. 4 ) or other input methods.

If the response indicates that the victim is in the vehicle, the dispatcher may be provided with a pre-programmed query: "Without placing yourself in any danger, do you see or know of any of the following?" The dispatcher may be presented with a list of chemical suicide indicators 604a-604j, including "notices or printed warning signs in, on, or around the vehicle," "visible smoke from the vehicle," "smoky or fogged windows," "household cleaning products," "buckets, coolers, or containers," "occupant wearing eye protection," "occupant wearing gloves," "unpleasant/bad smell," "tarp covering all or part of the vehicle (or nearby)," and "all doors and windows closed." The dispatcher may ask the caller to see if any evidence is visible and then indicate the evidence at the scene, for example, by checking a box.

Alternatively, if the response indicates a different structure type, the list of indicators presented may be different. For example, if the response indicates the victim is in a building/structure, the dispatcher may be presented with a list of chemical suicide indicators 606a-606h, including similar indicators such as "notice or printed warning signs in, on, or around confined space," "visible fumes," "household cleaning supplies," "bucket, cooler, or container," "occupant wearing eye protection," "occupant wearing gloves," "unpleasant odor," and a different indicator including "door gap or opening sealed with tape, clothing, towels, or other material." The dispatcher may ask the caller if any evidence is visible and then indicate the evidence at the scene, for example, by checking a box.

The dispatcher may be presented with a pre-programmed query 608, "Did the caller or any bystanders report any symptoms?" If the response indicates that the bystander/caller is experiencing symptoms, the chemical suicide protocol may present 608a-608d possible symptoms such as "dizziness," "lightheadedness," "abnormal breathing," and "burning/irritated eyes." The dispatcher may ask the caller to see if any symptoms are present and then indicate the symptoms present, such as by checking a box.

If the dispatcher enters input that the caller/bystander is not currently experiencing symptoms, or after the protocol receives the symptoms, the protocol can make a determination 610 of the likelihood that a chemical suicide has occurred. As described above, determining 610 whether the victim has committed chemical suicide can be based on the recording of one or more indicators within one or more categories or severity ranges. The determination can be displayed to the dispatcher and/or transmitted to the emergency dispatch protocol and/or emergency personnel. It will also be appreciated that the determination step can occur after each step or after the dispatcher enters input. Thus, the determination is updated in real time.

Although specific embodiments and applications of the present disclosure have been shown and described, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the precise configuration and components disclosed herein. Various modifications, changes, and variations that are obvious to those skilled in the art may be implemented in the arrangement, operation, and details of the methods and systems of the present disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims (22)

1. A method for predicting the likelihood of an event being a chemical suicide, the method being implemented by a computer and used to instruct a dispatcher during voice communication with a caller via a communication device regarding the event involving a victim of possible chemical suicide, the method comprising: A pre-written query is presented on a dispatch center computer device. The pre-written query comprises multiple pre-programmed queries for the dispatcher to ask the caller to systematically obtain a description of the event involving the possible chemical suicide. The description of the event includes caller responses to the multiple pre-programmed queries, and the pre-programmed queries include: The question asks about the type of structure described above that could lead to chemical suicide. Ask for observable indicators regarding chemical suicide; The dispatch center computer equipment receives input entered by the dispatcher, the input representing the caller's response to the pre-programmed query in response to the pre-written inquiry; On the dispatch center computer equipment, recommendations are automatically determined based on dispatcher inputs representing caller responses to one or more of the pre-programmed queries, recorded indicators, and scoring formulas, wherein the recommendations represent the likelihood of chemical suicide. The determinant value is calculated from the caller's response to the pre-programmed query; The priority of the event is determined at least in part based on the values of the determinant factors; The determining factor values are provided from the scheduling center computer equipment to the computer-aided scheduling system; The computer-aided dispatch system receives location and availability information from multiple emergency response units; and The computer-aided scheduling system allocates the emergency response units based on the determinant values, the recommendations, and the location and availability of the emergency response units. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein presenting the pre-programmed query further comprises: while the pre-programmed query is being presented, the dispatch center computer device traverses a path of a logic tree configured to determine the pre-programmed query as part of the pre-programmed query based on caller responses to the pre-programmed query. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing a pre-programmed query to the dispatcher via a user interface on the output device of the dispatch center computer equipment. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing a pre-programmed query to the scheduler on the scheduler-readable medium. 5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: determining whether a potentially hazardous site exists based on input entered by the dispatcher. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the pre-programmed query of the pre-written inquiry includes asking the caller what symptoms they are experiencing. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the pre-programmed query of the pre-written inquiry varies based on the type of structure in which the possible chemical suicide occurs. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising: automatically updating the predicted value on the dispatch center computer device based on the response to the pre-programmed query that queries observable indicators of chemical suicide. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing a post-dispatch instruction to the caller. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein, in determining the predicted value, some of the inputs entered by the scheduler are assigned greater weight than others. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein inputs entered by the scheduler with a greater weight are considered as explicit criteria, and inputs entered by the scheduler with a lesser weight are considered as speculative criteria. 12. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing a recommendation field for presenting the predicted value, wherein the predicted value is selected from the group consisting of obvious evidence, strong evidence, and no evidence. 13. A computer system for instructing a dispatcher during voice communication with a caller via a communication device regarding an event involving a victim of possible chemical suicide, and for predicting the likelihood that said event is a chemical suicide, said computer system comprising: processor; Output devices that communicate with the processor; An input device that communicates with the processor; and A memory communicating with the processor, the memory comprising: A chemical suicide protocol, comprising a logic tree configured to determine predicted values, wherein the chemical suicide protocol is configured to: A pre-written query is presented on the output device, the pre-written query comprising multiple pre-programmed queries for the dispatcher to question the caller in order to systematically obtain a description of the event involving the possible chemical suicide, wherein the description of the event includes caller responses to the multiple pre-programmed queries, and wherein the pre-programmed queries of the pre-written query include: The question asks about the types of structures that could potentially lead to chemical suicide. Ask for observable indicators regarding chemical suicide; The dispatcher receives input via the input device, the input corresponding to the caller's response to the pre-programmed query in response to the pre-written inquiry; On the dispatch center computer equipment, recommendations are automatically determined based on dispatcher inputs representing caller responses to one or more of the pre-programmed queries, recorded indicators, and scoring formulas, wherein the recommendations represent the likelihood of chemical suicide. The determinant value is calculated from the caller's response to the pre-programmed query; The priority of the event is determined at least in part based on the values of the determinant factors; and A computer-aided scheduling system is used to receive the determinant values and location and availability information from multiple emergency response units; and the computer-aided scheduling system allocates the emergency response units based on the determinant values, the recommendations, and the location and availability of the emergency response units. 14. The computer system of claim 13, wherein the pre-programmed query of the pre-written query is traversed according to a path along the logic tree, the path of the logic tree being based on the response to the pre-programmed query. 15. The computer system of claim 13, wherein the memory further comprises: a user interface displayed on the output device and configured to facilitate the presentation of pre-programmed queries and the receipt of input entered by a scheduler. 16. The computer system of claim 13, wherein the protocol is configured to determine the predicted value by determining whether a response to a pre-programmed query asking about observable indicators of chemical suicide indicates an event involving chemical suicide. 17. The computer system of claim 13, wherein the chemical suicide protocol is further configured to determine the presence of a potentially hazardous scene from input entered by a dispatcher. 18. The computer system of claim 13, wherein the pre-programmed query of the pre-written inquiry includes asking the caller what symptoms they are experiencing. 19. The computer system of claim 13, wherein the pre-programmed query of the pre-written interrogation differs based on the type of structure in which the possible chemical suicide occurs. 20. The computer system of claim 13, wherein the protocol is further configured to automatically update the predicted value on the dispatch center computer device based on the response to the pre-programmed query that queries observable indicators of chemical suicide. 21. The computer system of claim 13, wherein, in determining the predicted value, the protocol assigns greater weight to some of the inputs entered by the scheduler compared to others. 22. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instruction code for a dispatch center computer, the computer-readable instruction code being configured to perform a method assisting a dispatcher when the dispatcher is conducting voice communication with a caller via a communication device regarding an event involving a possible chemical suicide victim, the method comprising: A pre-written query is presented on a dispatch center computer device. The pre-written query comprises multiple pre-programmed queries for the dispatcher to ask the caller to systematically obtain a description of the event, the description of the event including caller responses to the multiple pre-programmed queries. The dispatch center computer device includes a logic tree configured to determine the pre-programmed queries of the pre-written query and to automatically determine predicted values based on dispatcher-entered input representing caller responses to one or more of the pre-programmed queries. The pre-programmed queries of the multiple pre-written queries include: The question asks about the type of structure described above that could lead to chemical suicide. Ask for observable indicators regarding chemical suicide; The dispatch center computer equipment receives input entered by the dispatcher, the input representing the caller's response to the pre-programmed query; and The dispatch center computer equipment assigns recommendations determined by the logic tree and the pre-written query, indicator record and scoring formula, wherein the recommendations indicate the likelihood that the event involves chemical suicide. The determinant value is calculated from the caller's response to the pre-programmed inquiry; The priority of the event is determined at least in part based on the values of the determinant factors; The determining factor values are provided from the scheduling center computer equipment to the computer-aided scheduling system; The computer-aided dispatch system receives location and availability information from multiple emergency response units; and The computer-aided scheduling system allocates the emergency response units based on the determinant values, the recommendations, and the location and availability of the emergency response units.