Establishing Response-Level Emergency Communications

The Department of Homeland Security knows the importance of communication in emergency and disaster situations. Officials learned this first-hand during the attacks on 9-11 and Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. As a result of those lessons, Office of Emergency Communications has defined a National Emergency Communications Plan (NECP) that identifies ways in which emergency response personnel at all levels can communicate on demand.

“The NECP enhances governance, planning, technology, training and exercises, and disaster communications capabilities with recommendations and milestones for emergency responders and relevant government officials,” the department said in a press release.

One of those milestones requires 75% of all jurisdictions to have the capability to establish response-level emergency communications within three hours of a significant event by 2013.

The Department defines response-level emergency communication as “the capacity of individuals with primary operational leadership responsibility to manage resources and make timely decisions during a multi-agency incident without technical or procedural communications impediments.”

DHS recognizes that the private sector will be an important resource to support emergency communications and advanced technologies. CME stands ready to accept this challenge! The kind of technology that will help local and rural government entities carry out a communications strategy and reach this readiness state is already available at CME.

We are working hard to help local governments and especially rural response agencies leverage the technology to ensure that communication flows smoothly even in times of confusion and disruption. And while different agencies may use a variety of radio systems and frequencies, most have the ability to receive text messages, voice messages, and e-mails, and have access to a computer to view Web site alerts.

CME is proud to have the ability to serve in this capacity and takes the responsibility seriously. You can depend on us for reliable service and quick implementation.