ImageTrend Advocates for Enhanced State-Level Oversight in NERIS Data Flow

On September 5, 2025, ImageTrend, LLC issued a comprehensive policy position statement to address the data flow requirements associated with the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS). This statement underlines the significance of preserving state-level oversight and compliance structures amidst the modernization of incident reporting. While NERIS is focused on enhancing operational efficiency, ImageTrend emphasizes that preserving the states' roles as authoritative data stewards is critical for effective incident management.

NERIS: A Modern Approach to Incident Reporting

The NERIS platform aims to streamline the data reporting process by facilitating direct data flow from agencies to NERIS and then to respective state authorities. However, ImageTrend has raised concerns about this approach. The fundamental issue lies in how this direct reporting model could inadvertently bypass essential state-mandated custom fields not represented in the NERIS schema. Such omissions may jeopardize compliance, as states monitor data quality to fulfill local needs effectively.

States have established specific compliance requirements to ensure accountability and visibility into the incident data collected. Without these parameters, crucial insights—such as trends in rising injuries, relevant fire hazards, and personnel exposures—could be overlooked. This potential loss of information could ultimately hinder states' ability to respond effectively to local safety concerns and increase risks to their communities.

Advocating for a State-Agency-NERIS Model

In its policy statement, ImageTrend advocates for a recommended data flow model that prioritizes agency to state reporting before submission to NERIS. By adopting this structure, ImageTrend argues for a balanced approach that preserves the compliance culture essential for data integrity. The model proposed ensures that state requirements are met first, reinforcing the necessary oversight and maintaining the integrity of agency-level reporting.

Patrick Sheahan, CEO and President at ImageTrend, articulated the necessity of such safeguards: "Fire agencies deserve assurance that the software supporting their data is implemented to enhance accuracy, support compliance, and be distributed to the appropriate governing bodies." He emphasized that the agency to state to NERIS flow model not only meets local requirements but also aligns with NERIS's broader goal of modernizing national fire data reporting systems.

A Strategic Approach in Implementation

To further streamline the transition to NERIS, ImageTrend has restructured its dataset. Instead of extending the existing fire datasets, ImageTrend has created a new NERIS dataset within its Elite platform. This approach minimizes operational disruptions for clients, paving the way for an efficient switch to the NERIS system. The company has also published a NERIS Transition Checklist and developed a dedicated Resource Page that includes FAQs and additional tools to facilitate this change for state and agency partners.

About ImageTrend

Founded in 1998, ImageTrend has emerged as a leader in transforming incident data into actionable intelligence. The company serves more than 3,100 customers across critical sectors, including fire, emergency medical services, and hospitals. With advanced data analytics capabilities, ImageTrend's solutions help customers optimize operations, enhance strategies, and substantially improve their service delivery outcomes. The company stands at the forefront of innovation, empowering first responders to better handle daily challenges and prepare for future uncertainties.

For further information regarding their policy position, visit the full statement on ImageTrend's website at ImageTrend Blog - NERIS Data Flow Policy.