As wildfires burn across Oregon, firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other public safety personnel are working around the clock to protect lives, property, and communities.

Reliable connectivity is a critical part of that response. It helps first responders coordinate across agencies, communicate from the field, and share timely information with the communities they serve. As conditions continue to evolve, we are deploying a range of technologies to help strengthen communications in areas impacted across the state.

In Sisters, a FirstNet®, Built with AT&T Satellite Cell on Light Truck (SatCOLT) was deployed to provide dedicated FirstNet connectivity near the Akawa Butte Fire. We also optimized the network at cell sites in Sisters and Prineville to further support first responders’ critical communications on the front lines.

In Eastern Oregon, a FirstNet Compact Rapid Deployable (CRD) was placed near Bates to support the response to the Salmon Fire. A second CRD was deployed in Days Creek to support agencies responding to the Castle Fire.

We have also optimized the FirstNet network at surrounding cell sites in Madras and White City, near the Evans Creek Fire at public safety’s request. As incidents evolve, first responders turn to FirstNet Central to bring together network intelligence and weather information in a single platform. This unprecedented visibility helps public safety agencies understand changing conditions, plan proactively, and work with the FirstNet team to ensure communications resources are aligned to operational needs – providing first responders unparalleled support and greater command and control of their network.

“Wildfires can have a devastating impact on communities, and reliable communications are critical throughout the response. We’re committed to making sure Oregon’s public safety community has the connectivity and support they need when it matters most,” said Christine Moore, Director of External Affairs, AT&T Oregon.

FirstNet is built with and for first responders, and its purpose is especially clear during emergencies like these. As the wildfire response continues, we remain in close coordination with local, state, and federal agencies, and will continue to monitor network conditions and deploy additional resources as needed. As public safety’s network partner, we are dedicated to helping first responders across the state stay connected during this wildfire season and whenever emergencies arise.

To all the public safety professionals working tirelessly to protect communities throughout Oregon, thank you.