Public Safety on World Telecommunication Day: Embracing the Future

Introduction to World Telecommunication Day

Every year on May 17, the world celebrates World Telecommunication Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of communication technologies in our daily lives. This year, Zebra Technologies Corporation is shining a spotlight on the emerging trends and opportunities for public safety organizations, emphasizing the critical evolution of communication systems in this sector.

The Shift from Legacy Systems to Broadband Solutions

The landscape of public safety communications is undergoing a significant transformation. Many organizations are moving away from traditional narrowband digital radio services, such as TETRA, which have been the backbone of critical communications since the 1990s. While TETRA has served its purpose, it comes with limitations that hinder modern public safety operations.

Limitations of TETRA

Some of the well-established challenges include:

• Low Data Bandwidth: TETRA systems struggle to handle the high data demands of today’s operations.
• Limited Spectrum Availability: The restricted frequency bands can lead to congestion and communication delays.
• Coverage Limitations: In many areas, TETRA networks do not provide adequate coverage, especially in rural or remote locations.
• Device Options: There is a lack of modern devices and applications that can integrate seamlessly with TETRA systems.
• Vendor Support: Many legacy systems face challenges in receiving timely updates and support.

The Advantages of Migrating to Broadband

David Gibbs, Senior Regional Product Manager at Zebra Technologies, highlights the benefits of transitioning to broadband. “Migrating to broadband facilitates increased bandwidth, lower latency, and improved user experiences,” he explains. This shift allows for a wider range of applications, including real-time data sharing and video communications.

Enhancing Emergency Services with Technology

With the right mobile computing devices, emergency service teams can leverage advanced technologies such as AI and augmented reality in the field. The integration of these technologies is essential for smart cities, which require equally smart public safety services. However, achieving this requires a robust device and network infrastructure.

The Growing Demand for Operational Data

The move towards broadband is largely driven by the increasing need for higher data rates and improved multimedia communication. Frontline operations, such as digital evidence management and incident reporting, necessitate efficient communication methods that include voice, text, radio, and video calls.

Enhancing Situational Awareness

In dynamic situations, high-performance mobile broadband is crucial for enhancing existing land mobile radio (LMR) networks. This demand for data-driven processes is vital for improving situational awareness and service efficiency, enabling agencies to consume and generate data more effectively in the field.

Collaborative Progress in Network Rollout

The speed at which networks are rolled out is influenced by various factors, including cost, standards, and spectrum availability. There is a growing trend towards adopting third-generation partnership project (3GPP) mission-critical long-term evolution (LTE) services, which support voice, data, and video.

The Role of Hybrid Devices

The increasing availability of hybrid devices that combine LMR and LTE technology ensures seamless mobility and network selection. This is particularly important in high-density areas, such as stadiums and transport hubs, where electronic multimedia broadcast multicast services (eMBMS) can provide critical multi-cast support.

Interoperability and Regional Variations

As different agencies progress at varying paces, regional differences in 5G rollout become apparent. This highlights the necessity for interoperability. Frontline teams require devices that can communicate not only with other LTE/broadband devices but also with legacy narrowband systems.

Gibbs emphasizes, “Organizations will need to move forward together, with enough flexibility for fast movers to leverage newer mobile computing on modern broadband, without losing essential lines of communication with agencies still using narrowband devices.”

Addressing Cybersecurity Threats

As public safety organizations embrace new technologies, they must also confront the growing threat of cyberattacks. The nature of the data being captured, shared, and analyzed in policing roles makes it an attractive target for hackers and organized crime.

Real-World Cybersecurity Challenges

One capital city fire and rescue service reported blocking over 300,000 cyberattacks in a single year. Additionally, several police and ambulance services have faced data breaches due to unauthorized access to supplier systems holding sensitive first responder data. Ransomware attacks have also targeted emergency services, including a significant incident affecting an ambulance radio program.

Prioritizing Device Security

To combat these threats, organizations must focus on device security from the inside out. Gibbs suggests implementing measures such as Secure and Verified Boot, ensuring devices meet ISO 19790 and ISO 15408 standards, and maintaining regular Android OS updates. Additional security layers, including Secure Element, Single Sign-On (SSO), and secure biometrics, should be deployed to protect devices.

Smart Storage Solutions

Moreover, smart cabinets for charging and storing devices back at base can further enhance security and operational readiness.

As we observe World Telecommunication Day, it’s clear that the future of public safety communications is bright, driven by innovation and collaboration. The transition to broadband not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures that public safety organizations are better equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow.