User:Vanstrat/sandbox/Alberta First Responders Radio Communications System
The Alberta First Responders Radio Communications System (AFRRCS) is a P25 trunked radio network for first responders in Alberta, Canada, owned and operated by the provincial government, that launched on July 1, 2016[1]. Construction on the system started in 2008 at a cost of $438 million.[1] The system is composed of 332 radio towers, and 2 mobile "Sites on Wheels" to allow deployment of additional coverage.[1][2] Previous to the implementation of the system, all first responders in Alberta used their own separate communications systems which imposed difficulties in communicating between agencies.[3] Although participation is voluntary and organizations can continue using their own radio systems, this new system is designed to link participating organizations to lead to a more coordinated response.[3]
The system was utilized, prior to official launch, during the Fort McMurray wildfire, which saw the evacuation of approximately 90,000 residents.[3] Approximately 250 radios[4] were distributed to first responders, including 32 different fire departments, after the wildfire damaged the city's radio tower causing their existing emergency communications system to fail during the evacuation.[1]
- ^ a b c d Ellwand, Otiena (23 June 2016). "Alberta-wide first responders radio communication system launches July 1". Edmonton Sun. Retrieved 11 December 2018.
- ^ "AFRRCS Agency Handbook" (PDF). Government of Alberta. 9 July 2018. Retrieved 11 December 2018.
- ^ a b c Ramsay, Caley (23 June 2016). "Alberta takes steps to improve communication between first responders". Global News. Retrieved 11 December 2018.
- ^ Bellefontaine, Michelle (8 June 2017). "Fort McMurray reviews not held back for political reasons, minister says". Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved 11 December 2018.