The Department of Homeland Security has updated the National Emergency Communications Plan to reflect planned efforts to address priorities in land mobile radio systems, broadband technologies, and coordination for emergency response and public safety programs.
Bobbie Stempfley, deputy assistant secretary for cybersecurity strategy and emergency communications at DHS’ National Protection and Programs Directorate, wrote in a Nov. 12 blog post that the updated NECP seeks to leverage technologies that were not available when the plan was first released.
“This plan incorporates traditional and nontraditional communications methods, including methods that allow first responders and public safety officials to better share information and enhance situational awareness,” she said.
These communication methods include public safety radios, emergency alert systems, social media, and commercial wireless and wireline networks.
According to Stempfley, NECP also focuses on U.S. capabilities for communications and interoperability across disciplines such as law enforcement, emergency medical services, public works and transportation.
DHS worked with more than 350 government and private-sector partners to develop the updated NECP, she said.
