Crime & Safety

Mapping Technology A Hit With White Lake Fire Department

Utilizing new technology, the White Lake Fire Department has every address and fire hydrant at its finger tips.

Capt. Ted Lily said that the new iPads, purchased earlier this year, have helped the firefighters immensely.

"We used to have to carry around a big binder with all these paper maps," Lilley said. "It was difficult for some of us to read those maps and the little writing when we would be on our way to a call at 2 a.m."

Now, all the firefighters have to do is pull out their iPad or smart phone and they have access to every inch of the Township.

Initial bids for the project were upwards of $100,000, however Lilley said the department was able to partner with other departments and utilize their own knowledge to pull together the iPads and maps for approximately $5,000.

"We knew we couldn't afford the bids we were getting, so we got creative," Lilley said.

The department has six iPads, one for each truck, and they purchased a program that allows them to update the maps with any changes or new hydrant locations.

"It's been really amazing to see how we've been able to put this together," Lilley said. "It's really made a difference."




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