FAQ-VITA

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• What is the meaning of VITA?

  VITA is the Latin word meaning "life".

• What are the VITA Wireless Samaritan Awards?

  First presented in 1993, the VITA Wireless Samaritan Awards are given to individuals, who exemplify the importance of putting safety first as well as the important role wireless technology can play in emergency situations. Each year, the wireless industry recognizes select individuals who have used their wireless technology to summon help in emergency situations.

• How are the VITA awardees selected?

  A panel of representatives from the law enforcement and emergency response services industry review and judge all nominations. Currently, individuals representing the National Association of State 9-1-1 Administrators (NASNA), the National Emergency Number Association (NENA), the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), and the Fairfax County Police Department comprise the 2008-2009 VITA panel of judges.

• What are the criteria for VITA awardees?

  In selecting the VITA awardees, the judges will consider the following questions: Was the individual instrumental in helping resolve the given situation? Did the nominee take action beyond using the wireless technology for help? Would the individual have been able to effectively help the situation without wireless technology? Is the nominee's use of wireless technology an example of the crucial role it can play in public safety?

• How are potential VITA Wireless Samaritans stories submitted?

  The Wireless Foundation receives potential nominees from CTIA member companies, the news media and the general public. If you are aware of a Wireless Samaritan story, you are encouraged to submit the information to Ben Burkhardt via email at bburkhardt@wirelessfoundation.org or call at 202.736.3229.

• When are the VITA awardees announced and recognized?

  With the implementation of the new "Real Time" VITA, awardees will be announced and recognized on an ongoing basis. In June of each year, a select group of VITA honorees are invited to Washington D.C. for the Annual Achievement Awards Dinner where they will be recognized. While in Washington DC, honorees will meet with their respective Members of Congress and have an opportunity to enjoy the nation's capital.

• What is Wireless Safety Week?

  Wireless Safety Week is an industry-wide effort to remind all wireless telephone users to make safety their first priority. Wireless Safety Week occurs each year in early June. During Wireless Safety Week, the wireless industry highlights select VITA winners from around the country.