By FireRescue1 Staff
AUSTIN, Texas — Texas is enhancing emergency preparedness by moving to FirstNet for first responder communication.
FirstNet reported that Governor Greg Abbott announced his decision to opt-in to the network. The partnership will deliver a wireless broadband system to the public safety community with modernized tools for responders to use on the job.
“The safety and security of Texas communities is my number one priority, and I want to provide our first responders with the best technology possible,” Gov. Abbott said. "As we saw in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, our first responders are often the last and only hope for safety in rapidly-changing and life-threatening situations, but this partnership with FirstNet and AT&T, allows Texas’s fire, police, EMS and other public safety personnel to be better equipped when responding in these emergencies.”
FirstNet’s partner AT&T will maintain a highly-secure network for Texas’ public safety community free of charge to the state. Emergency preparedness will improve by giving responders cutting edge technology.
“When Harvey hit, first responders were the first in to help rescue and support those in need,” AT&T-FirstNet senior vice president Chris Sambar said. “No matter the emergency – big or small – we can count on public safety to be there when we need them most. We’re honored to continue our close collaboration with Texas and its public safety community to give these everyday heroes the game-changing tools and technologies they need to carry out their lifesaving mission.”