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IAFC endorses FirstNet, interoperable broadband network for first responders

The planned network will allow fire, EMS and law enforcement to share information and communicate with pictures and video

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The IAFC endorsed FirstNet as a “critical” advancement in interoperable communications.

Photo/FirstNet

By FireRescue1 Staff

FAIRFAX, Va. – By unanimous vote, the International Association of Fire Chiefs board of directors announced its full support for the First Responder Network Authority, or FirstNet.

FirstNet will give first responders a high-speed broadband connection to communicate with others. The $7 billion network will allow users to share data, texts and videos with others nationwide.

“The ability of a single communication network to dispatch EMS and fire personnel, a medical helicopter and other emergency responders from different jurisdictions all at the same time while enabling video, text and data communications at broadband speeds will save critical minutes when it matters most.”

The goal of the project is to improve coordination and situational awareness during large-scale incidents involving multiple agencies.

The IAFC’s board of directors, which represents over 11,000 leaders from fire and emergency medical services, officially supported FirstNet in a written statement Wednesday.

In addition to their own support, the IAFC is also securing endorsements for the broadband network from major leaders in law enforcement and EMS.

You can read the full IAFC position statement here.

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