With the support of the Institute for Security Technology Studies at Dartmouth College, two PRS students conducted an analysis of first responder communications in NH and VT. The reports seek to assess the status of first responder communications and interoperability in the states and the relationship of interoperable communications to achieving statewide homeland security goals. To do this, current research into first responder communication and interoperability was aggregated along with evaluations of each states' communications. Personal interviews were conducted with state and local homeland security officials and first responders, including those from police and/or fire services in four Vermont municipalities. The quality of first responder communication systems can be examined in three dimensions, including the technology behind communications devices, multi-disciplinary/multi-jurisdictional interoperability, and training, community outreach, and education.
[New Hampshire Report]
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