An emergency call load handling system in a call network has an interactive
voice response (IVR) unit associated with a switching apparatus to which
calls may be diverted in special conditions, such as during emergencies or
disasters when calls to certain destinations may suddenly increase
dramatically. Calls are diverted depending on call destination and/or
pre-programmed triggers, such as a call load threshold experienced by the
switching apparatus or for a specific destination. The IVR unit in some
cases negotiates with callers for priority to further route calls, and may
play pre-recorded messages. Low priority calls are typically disposed of
to for fire stations, hospitals, government emergency handling centers and
the like. In some cases rules may be amended in real time by use of data
network connections between call centers and the SCPs involved.
