What is the purpose of the MSAG?

The purpose of the Master Street Address Guide (MSAG) is to ensure that 911 calls are accurately routed to the appropriate Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP). The MSAG is a critical database that includes street names, address ranges, and city or community designations, allowing 911 systems to quickly and effectively determine where a call is coming from. This allows for prompt response by emergency services, as the correct PSAP is notified, enabling them to dispatch help to the location provided by the caller.

The importance of the MSAG lies in its role in emergency response, where minutes can be vital, and accurate routing is crucial for public safety. It acts as a foundational element in emergency communications, thus serving a key function in the 911 system.