Cary is utilizing the Prepared Live app, which, when it's safe to do so, allows 911 callers to livestream the scene while waiting for first responders to arrive.

The tool saves time, and it could save lives, according to the Cary Police Department.

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Cary was one of the first municipalities in the state of North Carolina to use the Prepared Live app. Since 911 calls have traditionally been audio-only, Cary police call the new crimefighting tool a game-changer.

"It gives us a better understanding as to what is going on so we can adjust our response," Sgt. Kenric Alexander with the Cary Police Department said. "The dispatcher will ask if [the caller's] phone can receive video, then they send a link to receive the video."

Here's how it works: Once a 911 caller is in a position where it is safe to get video, a dispatcher puts the person’s phone number into the Prepared Live system. Then, the 911 caller is sent a link to tap using a smartphone. Once the caller taps the link, the person can start livestreaming the scene.

The Prepared Live app lets first responders better understand what they are getting into before they arrive on scene.

"It can be real time, as it's happening," Alexander said.

On Thursday, a 15-year-old was shot on Cary Towne Boulevard, and a 17-year-old was taken into custody. In that case, Alexander said it was too dangerous for the 911 caller to safely shoot video.

"If the situation doesn't allow for the user to safely use the system then we can't [do it], that situation involved so rapidly," Alexander said.

The software can save vital seconds in an emergency. It could also help potentially save lives.

In June, a couple livestreamed a car break-in to dispatchers in Cary. The video helped Raleigh police make an arrest.

"We were able to see the suspect actually breaking into the car...what he looked like, what he was wearing, what we should be looking for," Alexander said.

Dispatchers in Cary said they’re getting photos or video from about two or three emergencies each hour. The app isn't just used to stop criminals -- it helps prepare first responders for fires and crashes.

"The concept behind the platform is increasing situational awareness, [it's] not just a law enforcement tool, but all hazards too can use it, for police, fire and public works," Alexander said.

Prepared Live, and services like it, are rapidly becoming standard across the country.