Although Florida is nicknamed the Sunshine State, it experiences a six-month hurricane season that tests networks and first responders’ ability to connect and share vital data, especially with a lengthy 8,436 miles of shoreline to cover. Coverage, connection, and mission-critical features are vital to this state, which is one of the most frequently visited tourist destinations in the world — home to an abundance of theme parks, national parks such as the Everglades, and 10 major league sports teams.

University of Florida Health uses FirstNet across their facilities to connect personnel to the resources and information they need. Ambulances, helicopters, the emergency department, and the facilities department rely on FirstNet to connect with one another seamlessly and instantly while caring for patients and keeping them secure.

At the annual Winter Institute Workshop and Exercise, hosted by the Texas A&M University’s Internet2 Technology Evaluation Center (ITEC), public safety officials evaluate technologies in real-life scenarios to help shape future technologies and research. During the 2020 exercise, participants practiced integrating new technologies, including a FirstNet deployable, into disaster operations during a simulated cyberattack.

FirstNet supported Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue operations during Super Bowl LIV.