Using a GPS to Collect Information
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With the advent of GPS and other locating devices, firefighters have taken an active roll in mapping information. However when the data is collected it tends to come in a variety of “inconsistent” forms. While it is great that firefighter take the initiative to collect information using a GPS, often is the case where that information is pretty much useless. The reason include
- Poor accuracy of “recreational” GPS. Most GPS units used for navigation have an accuracy of +/- 20-40 feet. This means that if you are taking a GPS reading of a fire hydrant, you will only get enough accuracy to put it in the “general area” of the true location. This often includes the other side of the road.
- Lack of information about which point you are collecting
- Unorganized data
Using a handheld GPS is great for collecting data where the information is temporary or general in nature. Examples of where using a lower end GPS include
- Helicopter Landing Zones
- Fire Perimeter (A constantly changing event)
- Drafting Sites
- or to give yourself a “gut check” on the location of a feature where you may have other information on the location
There are GPS units that can collect highly accurate data. Companies like Leica and Trimble make units that cost over $2000. And the survey quality units go for substantially more.�
Guidelines for collecting data in the field
If you do decide to collect information using a GPS here are some general guidelines
- Take an accurate map with you in the field to check your work. Sometimes it may be easier to use “dead reckoning” to verify the location of a feature
- Take a form that helps you categorize the feature somehow. An example is below
- Input the data in a spreadsheet. Click on the Excel icon for an example
Latitude | Longitude | Feature | Description | Date | Who Collected |
-47.225 |
122.214 |
Drafting Site | Single Tender Access |
1/17/2008 |
|
-47.24 |
122.3 |
Helicopter Landing Zone | |||
-47.225 |
122.214 |
Drafting Site |