Saskatoon Fire Department improves dispatch efficiency with new modernized CAD system

For immediate release: March 17, 2026 - 10:30 am
FI26-11841

The Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) is proud to announce the launch of its new Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) software. This upgrade strengthens SFD’s ability to deliver efficient, reliable and timely dispatch service during emergencies and major events.

With a federal mandate requiring all 9-1-1 services in Canada to transition to the NG9‑1‑1 network by 2027, the SFD launched NextGen 9-1-1 in May 2025, upgrading its emergency call system from older telephone technology to a modern, internet‑based platform that makes emergency calls faster and more reliable. With this telephone upgrade in place, it became essential for the SFD’s CAD software to keep pace. The older CAD software would not fully support the advanced capabilities of NextGen 9‑1‑1 and was at risk of no longer being supported. The new CAD software is designed to work in tandem with NextGen 9‑1‑1 by transforming 9-1-1 call information into real‑time operational insight.

The CAD software provides dispatchers with superior situational awareness and improved resource management when firefighters need to be deployed. Information entered into the new CAD software is transformed into a real‑time operational picture, giving dispatchers a wholistic view of each incident and enabling them to manage incidents more efficiently and effectively.

Key benefits of the new CAD system include:

  • Streamlined, user‑friendly interfaces and workflows that help dispatchers access critical information quickly and work with greater efficiency.
  • More accurate and reliable data, for dispatchers to relay to firefighters, strengthening situational awareness while en route and on scene.
  • Faster and smarter deployment of crews and equipment to get the right resources to the scene sooner.
  • More sustainable and modern IT, reducing maintenance challenges and supporting long‑term stability and reliability.
  • Improved reporting and transparency to help the SFD monitor performance, demonstrate results and support accountability.

“This new CAD system represents the newest and most advanced technology in the industry," says Deputy Chief Rob Hogan. “Saskatoon is the first in Saskatchewan, and one of only 40 departments in North America to use this technology. It gives our dispatchers faster, more accurate information when 9-1-1 calls come in to our team. This modern technology will meet both the technical and operational demands of the SFD for years to come.”