Citizen given Champion Award for developing a device that accesses the 911 service for those with speech or hearing impairments.

News 100 blueBy Pepper Parr

November 26, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Arthur Rendall, a member of Burlington’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, was presented with the AODA 10th Anniversary Champion Award at the last meeting of City Council.

Arthur Rendall-7Rendall was presented the award for his successful efforts in getting text-based 911 services for those who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech impairments. The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) award recognizes outstanding individuals who demonstrate leadership, passion and commitment in the promotion of accessibility and inclusiveness in their community.

“On behalf of Burlington City Council and for all residents, I am very pleased to present this award to Arthur,” said Mayor Rick Goldring. “As a direct result his tireless efforts, there is now 911 text service from mobile phones for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech impairments and that benefits us all.”

Rendall worked closely with the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission – Emergency Service Working Group, beginning in 2008, to come up with a system that allows those who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech impairments to text 911 from their mobile device.

“At the start of the discussions, it was thought that developing such a service would be too expensive, but Arthur, did not give up and provided the leadership and drive to make this project a success,” said Judi Lytle, the city’s accessibility co-ordinator.

In January 2013, the CRTC announced enhancements to 911 services that would allow Canadians who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech impairments to communicate with 911 call centres by text message. The service is now available across Canada and is being rolled out across the United States.

Rendall has been a member of the Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee since January 2008. He is one of 101 Ontarians receiving this award which is given by the province.  Looks like one of Burlington’s Best to me.

For more information about Text 911 in Canada, visit www.textwith911.ca. For more information about accessibility in Burlington, visit www.burlington.ca/accessibility or call 905-335-7600, ext. 7865.

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