New Technology: Livestreams from Callers Enable Faster Interventions

Brussels Fire Brigade introduces groundbreaking technology allowing emergency services to receive live footage of incidents via the caller's smartphone camera. Spokesperson Walter Derieuw describes this as a major step toward faster and more efficient emergency response.

"Thanks to this technology, we can immediately send the right equipment to the right location," explains Derieuw. For now, this option is only used for fire reports, where visual information can be an added value.

Here’s how it works: during a 112 call, the operator may ask if you consent to activating your phone’s camera. "The operator will first request your permission and then send a link to your smartphone," says Derieuw. "If you agree, your camera is activated, and emergency services can follow the situation live on a screen in the dispatch center, while you continue talking."

This livestreaming technology, inspired by international examples, is a first for Belgium. The Brussels Fire Brigade is currently the only emergency zone using this innovation. After months of testing, the technology is now fully operational and available 24/7.