Transforming our nation’s public safety broadband network

The FirstNet network, operated by the FirstNet Authority as an independent agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), enables the fire service, EMS, and law enforcement to do their jobs more safely and effectively, no matter where they are located. The network is exclusive to emergency services, giving responders the ability to access the resources they need in real time as they respond to incidents. They can look up information about infrastructure near the scene, locate water facilities, and instantly share data with their response partners, all within a secure, protected network built specifically for their use. In short, FirstNet ensures emergency responders always have access to the network — resulting in faster, stronger, and more effective communications for all first responders. To improve and further the development of FirstNet, the FirstNet Authority meets with stakeholders such as the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) — as well as other emergency response organizations, communication centers, and law enforcement agencies — to learn about their operational needs, their experiences using the network, and suggested strategies for filling any gaps identified by responders on the ground.