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FirstNet expands footprint to Pacific Territories

FIRSTNET is America’s public safety network. That means first responders in all 50 states, 5 territories and the District of Columbia are gaining access to the only nationwide, high-speed broadband communications platform dedicated to and purpose-built specifically...

Using a Mobile Application to Address Stress-Related Symptoms in Emergency Dispatchers

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Abstract

Introduction: Emergency dispatchers report significant job stress, yet few controlled investigations examine their specific psychological complaints. Additionally, research examining the use of interventions directed at alleviating their work-related stress is limited.
Objective: This study aims to examine the efficacy and feasibility of a mobile application (PTSD Coach) on various indicators of psychosocial well-being among emergency telecommunicator dispatchers.
Methods: A sample of 117 emergency dispatchers attending the 2018 NAVIGATOR conference agreed to participate in a study examining the impact of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Coach on work-related stress. Over a one-month period of use, they completed weekly surveys of mood. The results indicated that dispatchers experience a wide range of emergency calls, some of which create moderate to severe distress.
Results: Twenty-three percent (23%) of the sample (n = 27) met criteria for PTSD. Engagement with PTSD Coach over a one-month period resulted in statistically significant decreases in PTSD symptom severity and other psychological indicators. Conclusion: Mobile application such as PTSD Coach offer accessible and often free psychoeducational and self-management tools to those who may shy away from conventional mental health treatment. The tools provided in the PTSD Coach allowed the dispatchers to practice managing their mood discretely. Additional modifications and application relevance are discussed.

Topics:secondary PTSD|stress management

Project improves communication for first responders (OH)

On June 1, Champaign County EMS and fire agencies will start the process of transitioning to the Multi-Agency Radio Communication System (MARCS) with County Dispatch. MARCS is a 700/800 MHz radio and data network that utilizes state-of-the-art trunked technology to...

Freemasons honor dispatchers with free lunches Friday (NY)

CANTON — Many people don’t think of that voice on the other end of the line, the one that is there, only when you need it, when there is an emergency, when you don’t know where else to turn, the one that answers, “9-1-1.” But on Friday, members of the St. Lawrence...

Honored: Columbia 9-1-1- Communications District (OR)

Columbia 9-1-1- Communications District, the sole Public Safety 9-1-1 Answering Point (PSAP) and dispatch center for all public safety agencies based in Columbia County, has been recognized by RQI Partners and the Resuscitation Academy Foundation as a “Resuscitation...

Fire Dispatch: Virtual 9-1-1: The Time Is Now

When you mention the numbers 9-1-1, people immediately think of quickly reporting an emergency or of the response system that’s involved. The term itself has entered our vocabulary as a synonym for speed.  If you ask the same people to describe where they believe...

FirstNet SurveyTAKE SURVEY>

Help Guide FirstNet Investments: Take a Survey hosted by the First Responder Network Authority

We welcome your insights on the experiences and operational challenges you encounter as a public safety professional. By participating in this FirstNet Authority survey, you’ll help shape future enhancements to ensure they meet the mission‑critical, real‑world needs of the public safety community. The survey takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete.

Understanding Operational Challenges that should Drive FirstNet Investment

Questions about coverage in your state?
FirstNet Advisors

Statewide Interoperability Coordinators (SWICs)

SURVEY

PSBTA Releases Survey on First Responder Support for FirstNet Reauthorization

New Survey: First Responders Overwhelmingly Support Reauthorization of FirstNet

A new bipartisan national survey commissioned by the Public Safety Broadband Technology Association finds near- unanimous support among first responders for reauthorizing the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority)– the agency overseeing America’s dedicated public safety broadband network.

PETITIONS

Congress should reauthorize the FirstNet Authority now.

Support the reauthorization of the FirstNet Authority to preserve public safety’s network

PSBTA UPDATES

Podcast

FirstNet and the 4.9 GHz Spectrum

This episode dives into the critical evolution of public safety communications, focusing on the recent FCC decision to establish a nationwide Band Manager framework for the 4.9 GHz spectrum, and discuss the evolution and deployment of the FirstNet System. Host Chris Tubbs interviews Chief Jeff Johnson, a leader in public safety technology and the development of FirstNet. Together, they explore the history, governance, and transformative potential of FirstNet and the 4.9 GHz spectrum in enhancing public safety operations with emerging technologies like AI, 5G, and augmented reality. The discussion emphasizes the importance of protecting and optimizing public safety spectrum, the lessons learned from past advocacy efforts, and a call to action for public safety leaders to remain engaged in ensuring the spectrum’s effective use and governance.


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GRANTS

Webinar

Accessing Federal Resources When an Emergency or Major Disaster Strikes

In light of the major disasters that our nation has recently experienced, PS Grants is offering this FREE webinar to review Disaster Assistance Programs and how to access them. Learn what federal funds and resources are available through Disaster Assistance, understand the process of requesting assistance, know what to expect before, during, and after, and find out who to contact for help.


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