Citation

Facella J. IMSA J. 2012; 50(1): 26-32.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, International Municipal Signal Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article discusses the role of communications in public safety. The article presents a brief history of where communications in public safety began and where these systems are today. The expectations for communications systems in public safety began to change in the 1970s and 1980s for two reasons. First, public safety missions were becoming more complex. In the law enforcement mission, many other functions besides patrol wanted the ability to communicate instantly. Detectives, traffic and other functions sought to use radio communications. Secondly, technology was advancing and allowing additional features to communications systems to better serve safety missions. Today, communications systems are used in public safety for law enforcement, fire services, emergency medical services, and traffic information. The development of new bandwith-intensive software applications and solutions transported on a nationwide public-safety-grade broadband wireless network will improve safety and efficiency as well as improve service delivery and safety to citizens.