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Image combines four images: an image of two men looking at a smartphone, an ambulance in front of a staged disaster, a FirstNet SatColt, and a mobile command vehicle

Incorporating FirstNet into Emergency Response Exercises

At the Texas A&M University Internet2 Technology Evaluation Center’s 2019 Winter Institute Workshop and Exercise, first responders trained on how to respond during an earthquake. FirstNet was used to enhance operational communications during a simulated natural disaster.

A firefighter in safety gear and helmet looks out, behind him is debris from a building. Text in the image reads "Join us in honoring our public safety heroes: International Firefighters Day | May 4, Public Service Recognition Week | May 5-11, National Police Week | May 13-17, National EMS Week | May 19-25"

Honoring Our Nation’s Heroes This May

During the month of May, the FirstNet Authority is recognizing and celebrating first responders for the critical, lifesaving work they perform year-round.

Text in image reads "NTCA 2019 Technology + Business Conference April 23-25, Chicago, IL, Where business and technology meet" above a background reminiscent of computer chips

Rural network deployment is key for first responders

FirstNet Authority Acting CEO Ed Parkinson spoke at the 2019 Technical & Business Conference hosted by NTCA – The Rural Broadband Association, discussing how rural network deployment will support first responders.

On the left, adults in a workshop style classroom listen to a speaker standing in front of a presentation, on the right are the words "Roadmap Engagement Phoenix, Arizona" and a graphic of a stylized network

Arizona Leaders Gather to Discuss Public Safety Broadband

At a recent public safety broadband forum, first responders, public administrators, and IT support personnel from the State of Arizona gathered to discuss FirstNet, its impact on public safety broadband needs, and the FirstNet Authority Roadmap.

During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, we celebrate our nation’s 9-1-1 telecommunicators and dispatchers and the important work they do. Image shows a man sitting in front of four computer monitors showing 9-1-1 information.

Celebrating National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

February 16, 1968 was a momentous day for public safety — it marked the first time a 9-1-1 call was ever made. In the five decades since, emergency communication centers and their dedicated teams of telecommunicators have become the first touchpoint for emergency response.