Critical connections: The challenges and solutions in public safety communication

Whether responding to a medical emergency, coordinating disaster relief, or ensuring officer safety in high-risk situations, public safety radio systems provide mission-critical communications that enable first responders to fulfill their missions.

What does it take to ensure these systems remain functional, interoperable and adequately funded?

This special episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, sponsored by Kenwood, features a panel discussion on public safety radio systems. Guest host FireRescue1 Editorial Director Greg Friese speaks with three emergency management and communications experts about the vital role of radio communications in emergency response, the obstacles agencies face in maintaining and upgrading these systems, and best practices for building a reliable network that meets the demands of modern public safety.

Chris Tucker is the Emergency Services Director/CEM for Warren County Emergency Services in North Carolina. Warren County Emergency Services operates radio systems for four EMS stations, 15 fire stations and the Sheriff’s Department. He is also a volunteer fire chief. Tom Murray is radio manager for Will County Emergency Management Agency in Will County, Illinois. The radio system he manages has over 5,000 subscribers across approximately 80 public safety agencies. Chris Shaneyfelt, a retired law enforcement officer, is director of Randolph County Homeland Security Emergency Management and Randolph County E911 Emergency Communications Center in Indiana. His agencies dispatch for 11 police departments, 10 fire departments and one standalone EMS agency.

Tune in to discover:

• The importance of reliable radio communication systems for emergency response.

• Challenges in funding and maintaining radio systems, especially in rural areas.

• The pros and cons of state-managed versus county-managed radio systems.

• Key considerations when evaluating and selecting a public safety radio system.

• Advice for securing funding and engaging stakeholders in the decision-making process.

Enjoying the show? Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

This episode is sponsored by KENWOOD, a trusted leader in public safety communications. KENWOOD ATLAS P25 Systems provide reliable, secure, and flexible solutions for mission-critical operations, ensuring seamless interoperability across agencies. Combined with KENWOOD Viking P25 radios, first responders get the clarity, durability and advanced features they need to stay connected and operational in any situation.