Legacy vs. Modern Response

In many departments today, the response process still begins with a station alert, followed by a quick walk to the wall map to locate the incident. Crews identify cross streets, hydrants, and then gear up and roll out. The captain, seated up front, monitors the legacy Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) connected to CAD and relays updates as time allows. For example, if the call is updated to a cardiac arrest or a structure fire report adds details about someone trapped. 

That process has worked for years. But it often limits access to information for the rest of the crew. Call type changes or updated notes may not be immediately visible to everyone responding.

Tablet Command addresses this gap

Instead of walking to a wall map, crews can tap on a Tablet Command or TC Mobile notification and see everything they need- hydrant locations, unit assignments, CAD comments, and apartment maps- right from the station or the rig. Drivers can review key details while walking to their vehicle, improving situational awareness and reducing delays.

With Tablet Command, notifications often come 30 to 60 seconds earlier than traditional station alerting because they’re triggered as soon as call type and address are verified. That head start allows crews to prepare, think through the call, and orient before arrival. In incidents where every second matters. That extra time helps teams mobilize faster and more confidently.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Crew members can follow the call and see live updates
• Turn-by-turn directions via Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze
• Custom agency maps show real-time unit locations, hydrants, and preplans
• Unit-specific staffing details help crews know who they’re working with

Tablet Command integrates with staffing platforms so crews can see who is on each unit. The MDT is no longer the single point of access- now, all personnel in the vehicle can view call details, comments, and assignments through TC Mobile.

Drivers can use turn-by-turn navigation via Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze. Aviation users can also navigate using ForeFlight Mobile.

In the words of one Tablet Command customer: "I don’t have to go find the wall map anymore. I check the hydrant while walking to the rig.”

Want to see how agencies are using Tablet Command in the field?

Schedule a demo and we’ll walk you through how it works. See why Tablet Command is trusted by thousands of departments across North America.

Common Questions About Tablet Command

What problem does Tablet Command solve for fire departments?
Tablet Command modernizes the response process by replacing outdated tools like wall maps and legacy MDTs. It gives all crew members access to real-time information- like hydrant locations, CAD updates, and staffing details-directly from their mobile device.

How does Tablet Command improve response times?
Tablet Command sends notifications 30 to 60 seconds earlier than traditional station alerting, giving crews a valuable head start. This extra time allows them to review the call, understand the situation, and prepare before they arrive on scene.

Can all crew members see call details, or just the captain?
With TC Mobile, everyone in the vehicle can access the same call details, comments, and unit assignments-not just the incident commander using the MDT. This shared visibility boosts situational awareness across the crew.

Does Tablet Command offer navigation support?
Yes. Drivers can use turn-by-turn directions via Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze. For aviation users, ForeFlight Mobile is also supported.

How do firefighters use Tablet Command in real life?
Instead of walking to a wall map, a firefighter can check hydrant locations and assignment details while walking to the rig. All the info is available instantly on their phone or tablet-no delays, no guesswork.