The U.S. Department of Commerce on Jan. 28 made an announcement that a federal agency will provide broadband solutions to first responders to assist with daily operations.
According to a FirstNet Authority series blog that was cross-posted to the Department of Commerce (DOC) website, last month the (DOC) gave nod to a federal agency that has provided broadband solutions to first responders to help with their daily operations.
FirstNet Authority was ordered by Congress to offer solutions like efficient communication options for first responders, as the field response and the core mission are dependent on it, according to the blog post.
One first responder who has experienced FirstNet's broadband solutions is the State of Oregon’s Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC) William Chapman.
"During last year’s record-breaking fire season, Chapman relied on communications over FirstNet to help coordinate resources, provide situational awareness, and stay in touch with public safety partners throughout the state," the blog post reads.
FirstNet Authority reports that during the COVID-19 pandemic, FirstNet has covered key sites that keep remote emergency operation centers, hospitals, and vaccination centers connected and functioning. The company provides 2.8 million connections being used by 18,500 public safety agencies and organizations nationwide.
“The FirstNet Authority is committed to ensuring that FirstNet will continue to provide first responders with the support they need to fully operationalize their network for the biggest impact," the blog post reads. "Our team of public safety advisors works hand in hand with first responders across the country to ensure the network is meeting their needs.”
