Public safety agencies across the United States are working to transform communications for first responders through the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNET) program, and surge protection from Transtector Systems and PolyPhaser is a significant part of the effort.
All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories have joined in the push to modernize emergency communications for firefighters, law enforcement and emergency medical technicians through this public-private partnership, with the ultimate goal of creating a nationwide public safety broadband network.
The development of “Smart Cities” is just one example of the significance of the FirstNET system. Smart Cities utilize data collection through various technological advances to improve the lives of its residents and enhance services. Clearly, emergency services are at the top of the list of priorities.
According to the FirstNET web site, more than 70 cities have already adopted the Smart City model, and incorporating FirstNET enables these locations to improve safety, reduce risk, and improve overall service and through a dedicated, mission-critical communications system.
Another example of FirstNET in action is happening on the Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. territory in the Pacific. Here, AT&T, in a public-private partnership with FirstNET, will provide a secure wireless broadband communications network for the islands’ public safety community at no cost to the territory.
Stemming from the 9/11 commission report, FirstNet is an independent authority within the U.S. Department of Commerce. Congress authorized FirstNet in 2012. Since the passage, local agencies and FirstNET have worked closely to develop customized plans for building the network in each state and territory.
In basic terms, FirstNet will modernize communications for first responders such as police, fire and EMS. The network includes dedicated, interoperable public safety spectrum, with technology driven by a public-private partnership to help ensure up-to-date infrastructure on an ongoing basis.
· To learn more about FirstNET and read additional case studies, visit the FirstNET web site.
· Transtector and PolyPhaser provide solutions for land mobile radio, data centers, and many other segments of emergency service topologies. Learn more here.
