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EPISODE · Jun 16, 2026 · 14 MIN

Why Seattle's fire department is using AI in 911 dispatch

from Seattle Now · host KUOW News and Information

Artificial intelligence is listening to emergency callers along with 911 dispatchers in Seattle. The technology is supposed to make emergency calls more efficient, but its effectiveness is unclear and legal experts have concerns.  Seattle Times reporter Daniel Beekman is here to tell us more. Read his reporting here. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed.  Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected], leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jun 16, 2026

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Artificial intelligence is listening to emergency callers along with 911 dispatchers in Seattle. The technology is supposed to make emergency calls more efficient, but its effectiveness is unclear and legal experts have concerns. Seattle Times reporter Daniel Beekman is here to tell us more.

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Why Seattle's fire department is using AI in 911 dispatch

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