What does "in progress" refer to regarding an event's timing?

The term "in progress" specifically indicates that an event is currently ongoing and has not yet reached a conclusion. This is a crucial concept in the context of public safety communication, as it helps telecommunicators assess the immediacy of a situation. When an event is labeled as "in progress," it means that responders may need to act quickly to manage the situation effectively, as it is still unfolding and poses an immediate concern for safety and intervention.

In contexts like emergency calls or incidents, distinguishing between situations that are in progress and those that have already occurred allows dispatchers and responders to prioritize their responses appropriately, ensuring that they allocate resources to events that require immediate attention. Understanding this distinction aids in effective crisis management and communication.