Deployables

The only nationwide public safety broadband network, FirstNet, which was created in 2012 is celebrating a decade of public safety accomplishments.

Cinco De Mayo celebrations in San Jose, California, bring in large crowds every year and first responders depend on FirstNet to avoid communication challenges during the festivities.

When disasters strike, public safety officials need access to a reliable communications network to facilitate and coordinate resources in a moment’s notice. During a wildfire that started near the National Center for Atmospheric Research facility, the City of Boulder, Colorado experienced firsthand how FirstNet Compact Rapid Deployable assets quickly resolved connections issues by reestablishing communication within 15 minutes.

In the Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Report to Congress, the FirstNet Authority highlights efforts to advance public safety communications technology through innovation and insight. The report details the forward-thinking, state-of-the-art technology made available to the public safety community through FirstNet and ongoing efforts by the FirstNet Authority to enhance the nationwide public safety broadband network.

In the City of St. Augustine, Florida, when multiple public safety agencies are involved in different aspects of securing the city―whether in the aftermath of a hurricane or during a large planned event―communication is critical to ensure all partners are informed and working as a single unit. Agency personnel citywide are connected to FirstNet, an interoperable network that provides reliable communication when they need it most.

The Oregon Department of Human Services is preparing for a potential Cascadia subduction zone earthquake. The agency identified locations that could become isolated from the surrounding communities if a disaster occurred. To prepare the state for this and other hazards, ODHS purchased 10 Compact Rapid Deployables from FirstNet and stationed them across the state, specifically targeting vulnerable areas.

EMTs and paramedics can be called to duty in incredibly hard-to-reach locations, and they need connectivity where their mission takes them. Compact Rapid Deployables are a unique FirstNet coverage solution that keeps public safety connected even in the toughest spots.

In 2022, the FirstNet Authority reached two major milestones: the 10-year anniversary of the legislation that created FirstNet and the five-year anniversary of the FirstNet Authority’s public-private partnership with AT&T. In the coming years, the FirstNet Authority will continue to build out the network, bring dedicated coverage to urban and rural areas, and invest in cutting-edge public safety technologies.

The Oxford Police Department is the first public safety agency in Alabama to obtain a FirstNet compact rapid deployable, a miniature cell tower that generates cellular and wi-fi coverage quickly, efficiently, and wherever it’s needed. This advanced technology acts as a solution for challenges that first responders face when trying to stay connected during emergencies, in more rural areas, or during large events where networks can get overwhelmed.

First responders across the country put their lives on the line to keep Americans safe. Our nation’s public safety community is at the heart of the FirstNet Authority’s mission. On October 28, we recognize their sacrifices and contributions on National First Responders Day.

Deputy Chief Gavin Babieracki of Otsego County EMS Rescue shares his experience responding when a tornado struck his community, a rare event in northern Michigan. Though the tornado was unexpected, Babieracki and his team were prepared with FirstNet and other technologies to keep first responders connected throughout the disaster.

Thunderbird and Whale was the first-ever national-level exercise fully planned and executed by tribal nations. Lynda Zambrano, Executive Director of the National Tribal Emergency Management Council, recounts her team’s approach to the exercise and how they maximized resources to benefit tribal communities in the Pacific Northwest.

This year marks the tenth anniversary of the legislation that created the FirstNet Authority. From our earliest days, the FirstNet Authority has collaborated with tribal leadership and organizations to better understand the needs of responders in Indian Country. We are working to expand broadband coverage into tribal communities that have historically lacked access to reliable communication services and offering advanced technologies to keep them connected.

The Orleans Parish Communications District celebrates the adoption of AT&T ESInet to support Next Generation 911 call handling systems. AT&T ESInet gives emergency call handlers greater location accuracy and added redundancy to ensure that 911 services remain operational during localized events. The new system along with acquiring a FirstNet Compact Rapid Deployable asset will provide reliable communications systems for Louisiana public safety.

First responders at any size event depend on reliable communication to ensure a successful and safe outcome. In preparation for the Super Bowl in 2022, Los Angeles area public safety agencies’ used the FirstNet Authority’s pre-planning event support to help maximize broadband capabilities. This free and unique service from the FirstNet Authority resulted in more timely and efficient decision-making, better coordinated responses, and well-managed resources and logistics.

Long before the rain starts falling or the wind starts blowing, first responders are focused on planning for hurricanes. Innovative features and functions on FirstNet and programs available through the FirstNet Authority help public safety agencies as they prepare for, respond to, and recover from these disasters.

Coverage is king for public safety communications. Since its creation, the FirstNet Authority has focused on ensuring first responders have coverage and connectivity whenever and wherever they need it. Deployables, high power user equipment, and a focus on 5G are some of the new ways FirstNet subscribers can get coverage in hard-to-reach areas.

 

During a joint training exercise and demonstration at Military Ocean terminal Sunny Point in North Carolina, federal and local first responders from across the state experienced how FirstNet can connect agencies during emergencies and everyday operations.

 

Dedicated FirstNet Fleet Grows to 150 Deployable Assets Nationwide; FirstNet Rapid Response Expands Mission-Critical Push-to-Talk Suite; AT&T ESInet Integrates with the AT&T Wireless Network to Improve Response Times for 9-1-1 Calls

Officers and public works personnel in Morris, Illinois, now have access to new capabilities and reliable network access with FirstNet. The network provides responders with interoperability and connectivity in the field.