New Technology Offers Police On-The-Spot Translation in Over 180 Languages

A city as diverse as Malden can call for special precautions to ensure swift communications in an emergency.

Thanks to new technology obtained by the city, first responders and some government departments will have access to a mobile, live interpretation service called "Enabling Language Service Anywhere" (ELSA).

At the push of a button, city employees will have access to live interpreters who can translate up to 180 languages, 24 hours a day. Employees can also access the service through a toll-free 800 number. 

Malden is one of only three Massachusetts cities utilizing the service. 

“Language barriers present a number of challenges when officers are responding to calls and investigating crimes,” Mayor Gary Christenson wrote in an emailed statement. 

“This technology will allow officers and first responders to communicate effectively and obtain information much quicker.”

You can watch a newscast demonstrating the product here.