Fire Truck Connectivity

Chief Robinson wants improved access to the internet while on-scene fighting fires along with en route location services. With the advent of tablet computers, scene commanders saw the benefit of having access to critical online documents while away from the truck. With budget constraints, they did not want to add to the monthly fees they were paying for wireless connectivity. Along with the need of more robust connectivity in the field, Chief Robinson was looking to improve GPS signal to help drive the GPS driven CAD system in place.

After contacting USAT, they installed a ruggedized cellular gateway with WiFi & GPS in the cab of the truck, and an antenna system that offered Wi-Fi/GPS coverage both inside and around the truck - commonly referred to as a Vehicle Area Network (VAN). With USAT’s guidance, they contacted their carrier and transferred their wireless service from the computer-alone to the WiFi gateway, and now the truck’s computer as well as dozens of other wireless devices can share a single cellular connection to the Internet. Lastly, USAT recommended using the GPS from the cellular gateway with a external antenna to improve connectivity not only while in the fire station but also in the field.

The scene commander can now have eyes and ears on the scene, and have Internet access over 100 feet from the truck. He checks building plans, HAZMAT info, material safety data sheets, and even checks IP cameras on site where available. This improved connectivity has improved the efficiency and safety of the entire fire fighting process. By connecting the cellular gateway’s GPS now the fire apparatus has strong GPS signal in the fire house and in the field which allows for constant connectivity as they depart and while in route to the scene. These improvements are reducing response time to calls, increasing capabilities in the field and allowing for more efficient operating procedures.