Marion Co. First Responders Get Boosted Communication Network

A New Era of Communication for First Responders

Law enforcement and public safety professionals now have access to a dedicated communications network that ensures they can operate without interference from commercial traffic, especially during emergencies. This advancement is made possible through the FirstNet Built with AT&T, a 5G network specifically designed for America’s first responders.

On Wednesday, AT&T and the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) joined local first responders, public safety officials, and community leaders in Marion County to highlight the importance of this network. Officials emphasized that FirstNet offers "unparalleled coverage, security, and reliable connectivity" for the nation’s public safety community.

Marion County Sheriff J. Brian Wallace praised the investment, stating that it strengthens emergency response capabilities and supports those on the front lines. "AT&T’s investment in modern public safety communications helps our deputies respond to emergencies, coordinate across agencies, and protect our communities," he said.

U.S. Representative Russell Fry (SC-07) also participated in the event, celebrating the recent wireless infrastructure upgrades in Marion County. He noted that these upgrades provide public safety professionals with enhanced, dedicated connectivity. "Our first responders count on reliable communication to do their jobs and keep our communities safe, and FirstNet is helping them do just that," Fry said.

The Importance of FirstNet

FirstNet is the only nationwide, high-speed broadband communications platform dedicated to and built for public safety. It allows first responders to communicate quickly and easily during everyday situations, large events, and emergencies. The network provides "truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it, unique benefits such as always-on priority and preemption, and nationwide, high-quality Band 14 spectrum."

This advanced technology helps fire, EMS, law enforcement, and other public safety entities save lives and protect their communities. FirstNet was developed following the vision of Congress and the first responder community after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. AT&T launched the FirstNet network through a public-private partnership with the FirstNet Authority, an independent federal authority.

Deployable Assets and Emergency Response

During the event, attendees had a firsthand look at deployable assets like the Satellite Cell on Light Truck (COLT) and the Compact Rapid Deployable (CRD). These portable cell sites are part of a nationwide fleet of over 180 deployable network assets exclusively available to support public safety on FirstNet at no cost. The FirstNet Response Operations Group™ (ROG), led by former first responders, manages the deployment of these assets.

So far this year, ROG has deployed more than 1,370 solutions to ensure public safety officials remain connected to critical information. Agencies can also purchase and operate their own FirstNet deployables to boost coverage during planned or emergency events.

Continued Investment and Innovation

Terrance Ford, Vice President of External Affairs at AT&T South Carolina, emphasized the company's commitment to investing in the communications infrastructure that South Carolina’s communities depend on. "The upgrades here in Marion County are part of our broader commitment to provide first responders with the technology they need to stay connected when it matters most," he said.

With over 370 localities in South Carolina relying on FirstNet, the service is essential for public safety across the state. Significant investments have been made to improve and enhance connectivity for FirstNet subscribers.

As of Wednesday, nearly 1,400 wireless sites across the state have Band 14 spectrum. When not in use by FirstNet subscribers, AT&T wireless customers can benefit from the added coverage and capacity.

Features and Capabilities of FirstNet

FirstNet offers a range of innovative tools and services, including:

• High-speed, wireless network to communicate and share data with other public safety agencies and jurisdictions
• Improved real-time tracking and mapping of resources and personnel, including vertical location data for officers in buildings
• Secure live-streaming video from body-worn cameras, vehicles, and drones to provide a clearer operational picture
• Enhanced in-building wireless communications
• Ability to monitor FirstNet network status and view coverage in areas where responders are active or being deployed
• Network priority features for non-public safety partners that need to collaborate with first responders during an event
• A catalog of vetted, secure public safety and law enforcement apps
• FirstNet dedicated deployable assets, which can boost communications during natural disasters, major planned events, or in remote locations
• A suite of voice, data, and video mission-critical push-to-talk capabilities

These features ensure that first responders have the tools they need to respond quickly and effectively, even in the most challenging circumstances.