When Iowa needed a backup communications network for its public safety answering points, or PSAPs, the state turned to FirstNet. Blake DeRouchey shared how Iowa uses FirstNet as a failover so 9-1-1 calls stay connected. DeRouchey is 9-1-1 program manager for the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and represents the National Association of State 911 Administrators on the FirstNet Authority’s Public Safety Advisory Committee.

