What are some other ways that public safety agencies can reach out to promote communications collaboration?
Bailey: I think it’s important to realize that interoperability, while a simple concept, has many layers to it. On the simplest level it means that Jurisdiction A carries an extra radio for the times when they interact with Jurisdiction B. You can also use technology like gateway devices, console patching and other things to make this work too. The key again is asking some fundamental questions before you get started. Then after you answer the questions for yourself you have to sit down at the table with your partners to figure out the rest. Mirgon: It really comes down to education, awareness, leadership, setting standards, and turning to local governments. Betts: Creating collaboration politically is key. The federal government has helped this along tremendously in that grant allocations are prioritized based upon regional cooperation and implementation. Kaull: Cooperation in public safety isn’t limited to EMS, fire and police officers and it’s not just getting some chiefs together.
