SAS Release 5 out now

 

Release five of EMV’s Supplementary Alerting Service app (SAS) has hit the Apple and Android app stores.

 

Significant end-user testing has been undertaken on version 5 of the SAS by members from CFA, SES and Ambulance Victoria.

Release five incorporates updates based on member feedback including:

• Removal of automatic log out every 90 days or after 30 days of inactivity   
• Other improvements to minimise log outs
• Addition of 18 additional tones including a mixture of short and long tones, sirens and other variations

The new version of the app will initiate a forced update for existing SAS users. Users will need to delete the current version of the app and install the latest version. It is also best practice to delete cached data at this time.

A reminder that as a result of the new installation, notification tones will return to their default settings. Members should ensure they re-set their preferred tones via the Notifications tab.

ACFO Operational Communications Jason Lawrence said the SAS team was committed to further development and bug fixes throughout 2022 to improve app stability, performance and functionality for members.

“We acknowledge that performance issues and irregular log outs have caused significant frustration for our members and all agency users,” Jason said.

“We encourage members to update to the new release to enable the new features and bug fixes.

“Regular releases are forecast throughout 2022 and will include priority development work based on feedback from our members.

“We will be seeking feedback from our people as we initiate further functionality enhancements.”

Developed by CFA, SES and Ambulance Victoria in conjunction with EMV, SAS works alongside the existing EAS paging system to give members increased functionality and enhanced communication during incident response.

In addition to providing members with the ability to confirm their response to events, the free SAS app allows you to set availability, view response times, chat with fellow members and view responding members’ qualifications and competencies.

EAS pagers remain the primary way to receive alerting and other important messages because of their reliability and extensive coverage across Victoria, and CFA members are expected to continue to use and carry their pagers.

For more information about the app, the User Guide, training videos, FAQs and more, visit Members Online or email the SAS Help Desk at sas.help@cfa.vic.gov.au

 

Submitted by	Shaunnagh O'Loughlin