High scores
This month the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released scorecards on the interoperable communications capabilities of 75 urban areas. The scorecards measure the ability of emergency first responders in those areas to work together within one hour of an incident, focusing on leadership, planning and equipment use.
DHS found that each jurisdiction had solid interoperable communications policies in place. But, while there is strong cooperation between agencies, formalized planning across regions is still lacking.
$2.9
billion in DHS funding has been awarded to communities for interoperable communications efforts since 2003.
9
of the 75 tested communities rated highly in public leadership for interoperability.
75%
of DHS-funded urban areas have developed regional committees to address interoperable communication issues.
Source: DHS “Tactical Interoperable Communications Scorecards Summary Report,” Jan. 3, 2007.
