What first responders need
Whether responding to a fire, medical emergency, or domestic threat, first responders must be able to maintain communications throughout the building and the property. It is imperative that they can communicate reliably and clearly, either using radios or smartphones. Buildings built with low-e glass have poor public-safety signal and cellular coverage, resulting from signal attenuation.
Traditionally, first responders have relied heavily on voice communications using Land Mobile Radios (LMRs) from dispatchers and others on site. Many larger departments are beginning to deploy smartphones and tablets in addition to or to replace these LMRs. In cases where departments cannot afford this new technology, individuals use their personal smart devices. These devices are used for navigation applications, dispatch information, incident command, and hazardous materials (hazmat) information.
The challenge is to maintain communication in difficult environments...
