The US National Grid (USNG) is a point and area reference system that provides for actionable location information in a uniform format. Its use helps achieve consistent situational awareness across all levels of government, disciplines, and threats & hazards – regardless of your role in an incident. NAPSG makes several resources available to help public safety agencies get started using the USNG.

USNG-Enabled Maps

Using USNG is particularly important in emergency situations, and responders should be equipped with reference maps which use the U.S. National Grid.

Find USNG maps with valuable location information here: http://usngcenter.org/portfolio-item/maps/

Familiarize yourself with USNG by browsing this ‘live’ Google map.

Why Use the USNG?  Background Resources

1. Applying the USNG for Enhanced Situational Awareness
2. Applying the USNG for Pre-Scripted Missions

How to Get Started?  Basic Implementation Guidance

1. Implementation Guide to the USNG
2. Video on Introduction to the USNG for Public Safety
3. How to Read the USNG
4. USNG Grid Card Reader Template

What tools are available?   Technical Resources

1. Map Template for Creating 1:24k USNG Maps
2. Guideline for Building USNG Polygons

For additional USNG-related resources and tools, also take a look at the following resources:

• USNG Center
• FGDC USNG Resources
• FEMA’s Directive on the Use of the US National Grid
• USNG Map Book Templates

Still have questions or need assistance?
NAPSG also offers fee-for-service USNG Technical Assistance for public safety agencies interested in using the USNG in operations. For more information contact services@publicsafetygis.org or by phone at 202-895-1711.