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A FirstNet tower in rural woodlands provides coverage to rural first responders.

When fiber fails, FirstNet connects Iowa’s 9-1-1 calls

When Iowa needed a backup communications network for its public safety answering points, the state turned to FirstNet. Blake DeRouchey, 9-1-1 program manager for the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, shared how Iowa uses FirstNet as a failover so 9-1-1 calls stay connected.
Firefighter holding FirstNet-enabled tablet speaks with FirstNet Authority representative; FirstNet compact rapid deployable is hitched to pickup truck and driven up snowy road; First responders uses virtual reality headset

Building on year of progress, FirstNet Authority looks to public safety to drive future growth

In 2022, the FirstNet Authority reached two major milestones: the 10-year anniversary of the legislation that created FirstNet and the five-year anniversary of the FirstNet Authority’s public-private partnership with AT&T. In the coming years, the FirstNet Authority will continue to build out the network, bring dedicated coverage to urban and rural areas, and invest in cutting-edge public safety technologies.
National Association of Counties logo; Public Safety Advisory Committee members seated at a table

PSAC Profile: National Association of Counties

The National Association of Counties (NACo) represents over 2,300 counties and provides legislative, research, and technical services to help serve the needs of the public. As part of these efforts, NACo works with public safety organizations to establish local priorities and align resources to achieve public safety goals. Through its participation on the Public Safety Advisory Committee, NACo gives local county leaders a voice in ensuring the FirstNet network addresses their emergency communication needs.
St Augustine police outside during an event.

World-renowned holiday lights festival happens with FirstNet behind the scenes

Every year during the holidays, the city of St. Augustine in Florida is transformed by millions of holiday lights that bedazzle the city’s downtown in an event called Nights of Lights. As visitors marvel at the twinkling lights, St. Augustine officials use FirstNet to ensure the event runs smoothly and safely for everyone involved.
Public Safety Advisory Committee members sitting in a meeting; Tribal Working Group members sitting around a table.

PSAC and Tribal Working Group Fall Meetings emphasize FirstNet growth and innovation

The FirstNet Authority’s Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC) and Tribal Working Group (TWG) held their annual fall meetings. The TWG met in Boulder, Colorado to tour the FirstNet Lab, share their experiences with FirstNet equipment on tribal land, and offer insights on how to improve tribal public safety communications. PSAC members gathered in Tysons, Virginia to discuss FirstNet Authority accomplishments in 2022, FirstNet buildout progress, and upcoming plans and activities to support the network’s continued growth and expansion in 2023 and beyond.