Today, AT&T and the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) joined local first responders, public safety officials and community leaders in Marion County to highlight how FirstNet® Built with AT&T – the only 5G network built with and for America’s first responders – is delivering unparalleled coverage, security and reliable connectivity to the nation’s public safety community.
U.S. Representative Russell Fry (SC-07) joined representatives from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, FirstNet Authority and AT&T to celebrate 5G wireless infrastructure upgrades on cell sites throughout Marion County.
“Our first responders count on reliable communication to do their jobs and keep our communities safe, and FirstNet is helping them do just that. With recent wireless upgrades in Marion County, public safety professionals have enhanced, dedicated connectivity they can count on,” said Rep. Russell Fry (SC-07). “We appreciate AT&T’s continued investment in South Carolina and its commitment to public safety.”
“FirstNet is a lifeline for public safety professionals and first responders. AT&T’s investment in modern public safety communications helps our deputies respond to emergencies, coordinate across agencies and protect our communities,” said Sheriff J. Brian Wallace, Marion County Sheriff’s Office. “This investment strengthens our emergency response capabilities and supports those who serve on the front lines every day.”
These enhancements to the cell sites also support first responders and the extended public safety community on FirstNet, Built with AT&T – America’s public safety network. FirstNet uses Band 14 spectrum, which is nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside by the government specifically for FirstNet. We look at Band 14 as public safety’s VIP lane, delivering dedicated connectivity when needed. When not in use by FirstNet subscribers, AT&T customers can enjoy Band 14’s added coverage and capacity.
FirstNet is the only nationwide, high-speed broadband communications platform dedicated to and purpose-built for America’s first responders and the extended public safety community. FirstNet enables public safety subscribers to communicate with one another easily and quickly during everyday situations, big events and emergencies. It is providing first responders with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it, unique benefits such as always-on priority and preemption, and nationwide, high-quality Band 14 spectrum. These advanced capabilities help fire, EMS, law enforcement and other public safety entities save lives and protect their communities.
FirstNet was shaped by the vision of Congress and the first responder community following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. AT&T launched the FirstNet network through a public-private partnership with the FirstNet Authority – an independent authority within the federal government. As public safety’s partner helping deliver FirstNet, AT&T has a federal mandate to expand and evolve the network, so public safety stays at the forefront of innovative, lifesaving technologies.
“FirstNet was designed with public safety at its core, and the FirstNet Authority works every day to ensure that first responders have the connectivity they need. These recent wireless communications upgrades in Marion County are a clear example of that mission in action,” said Dr. Damon Darsey, Board Member, FirstNet Authority. “Together with AT&T, we’re ensuring first responders have connectivity and capabilities needed to protect and serve their communities.”
During today’s event, attendees had a first-hand look at a Satellite Cell on Light Truck (COLT) and a Compact Rapid Deployable (CRD). Unique in the industry, these portable cell sites are a part of a dedicated, nationwide fleet of over 180 deployable network assets, which are exclusively available to support public safety on FirstNet at no cost. The FirstNet Response Operations Group™ (ROG) – led by a team of former first responders – guides the deployment of the FirstNet fleet. So far this year, ROG triaged and deployed more than 1,370 solutions, helping ensure public safety officials remain connected to the critical information they need. Agencies can also purchase, own and operate their own FirstNet deployables to help boost coverage around planned or emergency events.
“At AT&T, we’re committed to investing in the communications infrastructure that South Carolina’s communities depend on. The upgrades here in Marion County are part of our broader commitment to provide first responders with the technology they need to stay connected when it matters most,” said Terrance Ford, Vice President of External Affairs, AT&T South Carolina. “Through FirstNet, we’re delivering reliable, dedicated connectivity that gives public safety the innovative communications tools they need to respond quickly and effectively.”
With more than 370 localities in South Carolina where first responders and public safety agencies rely on FirstNet, the service is critical to public safety across the state. Significant investments have also recently been made in South Carolina to improve and enhance connectivity for first responders subscribed to FirstNet. Today, nearly 1,400 wireless sites across the state have Band 14 spectrum. When not in use by FirstNet subscribers, AT&T wireless customers can enjoy Band 14’s added coverage and capacity.
Go to AT&T Connects to learn more about how AT&T is supporting South Carolina. For more about the value FirstNet is bringing to public safety, check out FirstNet.com. Individual first responders can also subscribe to FirstNet online or at their local AT&T store.
