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Ambulance and other vehicles from the Jackman Moose River Fire Rescue agency responding to a vehicle accident in a ditch beside a rural road.

5 ways to leverage FirstNet for EMS

FirstNet can be an important and cost-effective tool for enhancing EMS operations. From push-to-talk capabilities for budget-friendly interoperability to devices that operate like mini cell sites for improved indoor coverage, FirstNet can support communications for EMS practitioners.

Cellular tower with forest and mountain landscape in backdrop

Three keys to success for FirstNet 3.0

The FirstNet Authority’s public-private partnership with AT&T achieved a major milestone by completing the initial network buildout in all 50 states, 5 territories, and the District of Columbia. This buildout serves as a launching pad for the future of FirstNet, or FirstNet 3.0. Executive Director Joe Wassel identifies three keys to success in evolving the network in a way that is strategic and meets public safety’s needs.

A FirstNet cell site situated on a hilly expanse surrounded by dense forest and a view of mountains and a lake in the distance.

FirstNet: Initial Buildout of Public Safety’s Network Verified, Delivering for America’s First Responders

The completion of the initial five-year buildout of FirstNet represents a defining accomplishment for public safety’s network. With the initial buildout completed, the First Responder Network Authority is shifting to the next phase of evolving, enhancing, and expanding FirstNet, focusing on constant innovation to ensure first responders can reliably communicate and access advanced, purpose-built solutions to keep both themselves and their communities safe.

Attendees gather around a table at the FirstNet Users Summit; abstract pattern moves outward from attendees like rings on a tree

California summit delivers valuable FirstNet feedback

The FirstNet Authority works hand in hand with public safety to collect feedback on the network and their communications needs. First responders gathered for the FirstNet Users Summit in Sacramento, California to share their real-world experience using FirstNet. The FirstNet Authority uses public safety’s insights to ensure the network offers the right tools and services to meet their technical and operational needs.

An emergency telecommunicator seated at a desk, working remotely; an emergency telecommunicator on a phone call at her desk, working remotely; an emergency telecommunicator working at her desk at an emergency communications center; a laptop sitting on a desk.

ECCs prepare for the expected — and unexpected — with FirstNet

In dealing with highly impactful yet rare occurrences, like a global pandemic or a Category 5 hurricane, public safety agencies are making use of FirstNet, the nationwide broadband network designed for first responders. These high-priority, low-frequency events have enabled the implementation of remote 9-1-1 call-taking, tactical dispatch, and the incorporation of FirstNet as a wireless backup for 9-1-1 systems. These initiatives help ensure dependable emergency communications during major events and incidents.