Across the State of North Carolina, we’re working on our mission of providing public safety with unparalleled connectivity so first responders can execute on their mission of keeping our communities safe. And with hurricane season underway, it’s more critical than ever to ensure public safety stays connected.
On July 31, I joined my colleagues at AT&T, the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) and community leaders in Elon to celebrate new wireless infrastructure upgrades throughout Alamance County. Together, we showcased how FirstNet® Built with AT&T – the only network built with and for America’s first responders – is delivering coverage, security and reliable connectivity to the nation’s public safety community.
The event also brought together key industry and local leaders including U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09), National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Administrator Arielle Roth and representatives from the Alamance County Emergency Management, the North Carolina 911 Board and the Alamance County Chamber of Commerce.
What they’re saying:
“FirstNet has been a lifeline during floods and hurricanes,” said Rep. Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chair, Communications and Technology Subcommittee, U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee. “I appreciate AT&T’s partnership in expanding coverage, especially in rural areas where it can mean the difference between life and death.”
“I am thrilled to join Representative Hudson and public safety leaders to celebrate these impactful upgrades to North Carolina’s public safety infrastructure,” said Arielle Roth, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator. “The needs of our first responders – here and across the country – will guide NTIA’s efforts to strengthen FirstNet and ensure that it delivers on its statutory mission.”
“Whether it’s a severe storm or a public safety incident, reliable communications are essential in how we respond to emergency situations. This enhanced connectivity will ensure our first responders can coordinate efficiently and effectively to keep our communities safe,” said Chris Saul, Director, Alamance County Office of Emergency Management. “We appreciate AT&T’s investment in Alamance County and for investing in the 21st century public safety technology that strengthens our ability to protect and save lives.”
Prioritizing first responders
Keeping first responders connected during every situation is why we do what we do. The network enhancements, showcased in Elon, support first responders and public safety agencies on FirstNet and include Band 14 spectrum – a nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside specifically for FirstNet.
FirstNet enables public safety subscribers to communicate with one another easily and quickly during everyday situations, big events and emergencies. It provides first responders with unique benefits such as always-on priority and preemption using Band 14 spectrum. These advanced capabilities help fire, EMS, law enforcement and other public safety entities save lives and protect their communities.
When it comes to keeping first responders connected, FirstNet is stepping up with powerful tools like the Satellite Cell on Light Truck (COLT) and the Compact Rapid Deployable (CRD). At the event, attendees were able to see these tools first-hand. These portable sites are part of a nationwide fleet of over 180 deployable assets designed specifically for public safety, at no cost. Led by the FirstNet Response Operations Group™ (ROG), a team of former first responders, more than 1,370 solutions have been rolled out just this year to support emergency response and planned events.
Keeping public safety connected in North Carolina
Here in North Carolina, we’re connecting public safety agencies and organizations in more than 770 localities across the state. We’ve also rolled out Band 14 on nearly 2,000 sites across North Carolina to provide public safety with truly dedicated coverage and capacity. And we’re continuing to expand FirstNet with purpose based on public safety’s direct feedback and network considerations.
“FirstNet is built by public safety and for public safety. The FirstNet Authority is dedicated to expanding the network based on public safety’s evolving needs and operations,” said Chief Trisha Wolford, Board Member, FirstNet Authority and Fire Chief for Anne Arundel County Fire Department. “We are delivering on that promise for first responders in Alamance County. These sites will enhance coverage and help public safety better serve their community.”
On behalf of the AT&T team, I would like to thank the public safety organizations, local first responders, community leaders, Congressman Hudson and Administrator Roth for their support in our mission to provide first responders with the connectivity they need, when it matters most.
FirstNet and the FirstNet logo are registered trademarks and service marks of the First Responder Network Authority. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
