Revolutionizing First Responder Communications

Epiq Solutions Unveils PRiSM for Enhanced In-Building Connectivity

First responders' ability to maintain constant communication within buildings during emergencies is critical for their safety and effective mission execution. Recognizing this, most state and local jurisdictions mandate coverage in every part of a building, leading to national model codes by the NFPA and International Code Council, addressing emergency communications for all first responder disciplines.

The Science and Technology Directorate's (S&T) Project Responder research highlighted the need for improved in-building communications. Cuong Luu of S&T emphasized the risks posed to first responders due to unreliable communications in such settings. To tackle this, the DHS Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program introduced the "In-building Coverage Analysis System (ICAS) Using Existing First Responder’s Radio and Smartphone," leading to a collaboration with Epiq Solutions, Inc.

First responders typically use Land Mobile Radios (LMR) and the FirstNet LTE network for communication. However, these are separate networks, with LMR managed by state/local public safety organizations and FirstNet by AT&T. This separation highlights a gap in recording, accessing, and maintaining in-building service availability for both networks.

A challenge in ensuring effective emergency communications is the lack of standardized methods for evaluating coverage in buildings, with evaluations being inconsistent and infrequent. Cuong Luu and Gary Schluckbier from Epiq Solutions stress the importance of frequent, standardized testing for accurate data and trusted in-building communications.

Epiq Solutions developed PRiSM, a low-cost, easy-to-use technology for signal strength measurement and performance data collection in common first responder bandwidths, enhancing the testing and evaluation process. The data is stored in an online portal, accessible as needed.

This innovation simplifies testing, reduces costs, and promotes standardized best practices, benefiting building owners and developers by avoiding the need for complex, expensive equipment and highly trained personnel. The technology's commercial launch by Epiq Solutions is forthcoming.

In summary, improving in-building communications for first responders is vital, with efforts focusing on innovative technologies and standardized testing to ensure reliable and efficient emergency response.

🌐 Sources

  1. dhs.gov - Project Responder 6 Report
  2. dhs.gov - S&T FRG Project Responder 5
  3. dhs.gov - Project Responder 6 Fact Sheet
  4. dhs.gov - S&T FRG Project Responder 4
  5. dhs.gov - First Responders Need to Know They'll Be Heard
  6. dhs.gov - S&T FRG PR4 Emergency Response Plan Incidents 2014

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