GOVERNMENT TECHNOLOGY/Building safety nets
Homeland security imperatives and the war on terrorism have compelled local, state and federal government public safety agencies to communicate and work together in unprecedented ways. Effectively managing communications, resources and manpower among a variety of agencies, however, is easier said than done. Many different technology products are emerging to help agencies work together in emergencies, but not all of them are designed to complement other software applications or a variety of hardware. To collaborate across organizational boundaries, agencies must use technologies that meet five requirements.
- Comply with industry standards
Applications, systems and technologies must integrate with other network elements, such as communication and data management systems. If all components in a network meet industry standards, data can be shared easily.
- Work with Web-based platforms
First responders from several jurisdictions are likely to access information and interact with each other using an array of technologies, including radios, telephones and video. That complex environment can best be managed with a Web-based platform that first responders can use to post and download information.
- Secure
Because first responders tend to work in the field, they need strong authentication technology on their computers, including biometric access control measures, to prevent unauthorized access to information. Device- and network-level security is a paramount concern.
- Available.
Whether first responders are involved in problems with hazardous materials or hostages, they must have access to communication networks and information.
- Flexible
As new threats occur or new technologies evolve, the underlying technology must be able to adapt to support a constantly changing environment and support new business processes.
Using those criteria, Montgomery County, Md., emergency operations center (EOC) officials implemented an incident management application in March 2004 that provides a status of all participating agencies’ assets before resources are deployed. “In the past we knew about the information on hand, but we knew about it separately,” says Bob Freeman, Montgomery County’s EOC operations manager. “Now, through technology, we have access to all of it at the same time.” The system has data feeds from satellite imagery of the entire county, floor plans of schools and key buildings, 120 live traffic cameras, three-dimensional, interactive photos and real-time data from 911 dispatches.
Collaborative technologies allow the multiple information sources to be combined into one system and shared among first responders, utilities and hospitals with access through wireless Internet or satellite applications running off a shared platform. Security is ensured through EOC’s network firewall, as well as the county’s. Montgomery County’s business continuity strategy includes several dispersed servers with onsite hard drive backup.
As the county has learned, operational collaboration translates into better public safety. While much work remains, metropolitan areas and regional initiatives continue preparing for technology that will strengthen the national emergency response system.
The author is director of Justice and Public Safety for Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft.