Communications and Interoperability
The communications and interoperability resource page is designed to help firefighters keep up with the latest communications gear and best practices in mutual-aid and interoperability.
The school district will purchase and install 690 radios on buses and equipment on 12 tower sites, all tied to the county’s existing 800-megahertz emergency system
The bill would add 911 operators as one of the professions whose residential and familial information is exempted from public record in order to better protect them from harm and harassment
A proposed bill would open up special state retirement plans that previously were available only to police, fire and EMS personnel
Voice-operated two-way intrateam networks can improve safety and efficiency across operations
Several factors contribute to how dispatch centers work – and hiring to fill seats will undoubtedly lead to issues
Large events test your system before the first call. This checklist helps fire and EMS leaders stage resources, align command and prepare for rapid escalation.
Time may be limited, but we can find ways to maintain the shared kitchen table time that builds a sense of family
Nine McKinney firefighters were injured, including two seriously, during search operations at a 2025 McMansion fire, underscoring air management, size-up and interior coordination
From the Super Bowl to the Olympics, veteran chiefs reveal how to build a unified command structure that holds under pressure — before the first siren sounds
Chief Bryan Frieders breaks down the fire department role at major events like the Super Bowl and large festivals
From a hoax school shooting to Boston Marathon planning, real-world incidents show how relationships and pre-event coordination determine outcomes
How to lean into a customer-focused approach to modern fire service delivery
With the right training and direction, rapid intervention should never be a dull assignment
FirstNet
An honest look at what it really means to be aggressive and stay safe on the job
From drones and AI to virtual reality, emerging innovations promise to reshape operations, enhance safety and strengthen decision-making across the fire service
After-action reports one year after the Palisades and Eaton fires point to staffing, coordination and evacuation gaps, driving changes to improve future wildfire response
A step-by-step resource to help fire agencies prepare a stronger AFG communications grant application
Don’t assume residents know what your department does; spell it out and explain how additional funding would positively impact community members
Confidence can only be obtained through realistic MCI drills that truly test the system
Delayed, late alerts and widespread misrouted notifications have renewed concerns over the reliability of the region’s emergency warning systems
Moses Lake and Grant County firefighters practice search, hose advances, wall breaches and ventilation while strengthening coordination amid staffing challenges
Speakers and sessions underscored how practical innovation, coordinated planning and early engagement between developers and responders are shaping safer, faster and more efficient emergency operations
The five Cs of radio communications help firefighters deliver effective size-ups and status reports
Digital tools may streamline operations, but they risk eroding the face-to-face dialogue and trust that build strong firehouse culture and leadership
A new after-action report on January’s catastrophic Palisades Fire praises officers’ heroism but details major coordination breakdowns, unclear command structures and recordkeeping lapses
A look at what first responders need now – and what they need next
A new after-action review says agencies were overwhelmed, the EOC was largely ineffective, alert tools went underused and outdated policies delayed orders, echoing Woolsey-era warnings as west Altadena burned during the Eaton fire.
Supervisors grilled fire and OEM leaders over late, confusing warnings during the Palisades and Eaton wildfires
Turn fragmented systems into seamless collaboration during critical incidents
MOST POPULAR
- FDNY tests out network command concept and Electronic Command Board
- Consolidating Ind. county 911 dispatch center proves difficult amidst increased operational costs
- Inside Look: FirstNet’s Innovation and Test Lab
- Ore. voters to decide on $28M upgrade to radio system for 911 dispatch center
- Fla. county launches livestream option for 911 calls