South Carolina Enhances Emergency Communications with Verizon

News Summary

Verizon Business has secured a contract with the South Carolina Army National Guard (SCARNG) to provide advanced wireless communications for over 1,000 devices. This initiative aims to bolster emergency response capabilities throughout the state, particularly during natural disasters. The contract includes access to Verizon’s Frontline Crisis Response Team, which is available 24/7 to assist public safety agencies in emergencies. With advancements like portable cell sites and enhanced network performance, this partnership ensures that South Carolina’s emergency response is well-equipped as hurricane season approaches.

South Carolina Enhances Emergency Communications with New Verizon Contract

Columbia, South Carolina – Verizon Business has announced a significant new contract with the South Carolina Army National Guard (SCARNG), naming Verizon as the primary wireless communications provider for the state’s military component. This contract, which covers connectivity for over 1,000 devices, underscores the critical role of reliable communication channels in emergency response efforts throughout South Carolina.

The agreement includes the provision of advanced technology devices such as 5G Ultra Wideband (UW) and 4G LTE smartphones, alongside data devices like jet packs. These capabilities are essential for the SCARNG to effectively fulfill its mission across the state, particularly during domestic emergencies such as natural disasters.

In addition to hardware, the SCARNG will have access to the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team. This team, composed largely of former first responders and military personnel, provides on-demand emergency assistance at no cost to supported public safety and government agencies during crises. Availability of the response team is continuous, operating 24/7 to ensure prompt and efficient support in emergencies.

The Verizon Frontline team is equipped to set up portable cell sites, Wi-Fi hotspots, and charging stations to bolster communication capabilities during critical situations. These enhancements are crucial as the SCARNG often plays a pivotal role in responding to emergencies and providing operational support to the governor during major events.

Verizon’s commitment to improving communications extends beyond hardware provisions. The company is focused on enhancing network performance during major emergencies, especially in preparation for hurricane season. Effective preparation and training are emphasized to ensure rapid recovery efforts in critical telecommunications infrastructure.

To further strengthen inter-agency communication and response strategies, Verizon has been actively involved in training exercises, such as “Patriot 24.” This initiative includes collaboration between military and emergency management personnel, simulating realistic, high-intensity crisis scenarios that could impact critical communication networks.

Several specialized teams from Verizon, such as the Major Emergency Response Incident Team (MERIT), Dedicated Impact Response Team (DIRT), Emergency Response Team (ERT), and the Verizon Frontline Team, participated in the training drill. The MERIT focuses on hazardous materials situations, while the DIRT specializes in restoring and repairing damaged wireless towers, ensuring that communication channels remain operational during emergencies.

Verizon boasts over 550 portable assets distributed across the United States for deployment during disasters. These assets include generator-powered cell sites and Tactical Humanitarian Operations Response (THOR) vehicles, which can establish 5G networks in emergency scenarios. Additionally, the company utilizes innovative technology like the Robotic Emergency Dog (RED), which is capable of creating secure and reliable private 5G networks even in hazardous conditions.

Continuous training is a priority at Verizon, as the company zeroes in on preparing its network for resilience during disruptive events and natural disasters. Furthermore, established relationships with other carriers for mutual support during emergencies bolster community efforts, demonstrating a commitment to collaboration that transcends competitive interests.

This new partnership between Verizon Business and the SCARNG not only enhances the operational efficiency of the National Guard’s emergency response capabilities but also serves as a timely initiative as South Carolina approaches the hurricane season, highlighting the readiness of telecommunications services in disaster recovery efforts.

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Author: HERE Greenwood