FirstNet® – the only nationwide network built with and for America’s first responders – is keeping public safety connected, unlike any other network. Here are 3 strategic ways:
- Expanding the FirstNet 5G footprint: As public safety’s communications partner, AT&T* has expanded 5G connectivity for first responders on FirstNet to further support public safety’s mission needs. Now, first responders in an additional 10 cities across the United States – Austin (Texas), Charlotte (N. Carolina), Cleveland (Ohio), Dallas (Texas), El Paso (Texas), Houston (Texas), Knoxville (Tenn.), Phoenix (Ariz.), Raleigh (N. Carolina) and San Antonio (Texas) –have access to 5G.
- Deploying FirstNet MegaRange™ for Disaster Response: Since launching FirstNet MegaRange earlier this year – which significantly boosts cellular transmission strength and enables first responders to operate farther away – public safety has started experiencing its exclusive benefits as they respond to everyday emergencies and disasters. From remote patient care to the frontlines of wildfire response, MegaRange is keeping first responders connected at the edge of coverage when lives are on the line.
- Launching nationwide interoperability with AT&T ESInet: To increase the flexibility and resiliency of AT&T NextGen 9-1-1 services, AT&T ESInet is now integrated with the FirstNet network. By serving as an automatic wireless backup to connect to public safety answering points (PSAP), FirstNet enables the delivery of IP-based 9-1-1 call traffic through the AT&T Virtual Private Network (VPN).
How is 5G on FirstNet different from commercial networks?
AT&T is taking the right steps for public safety in a way that meets its unique mission needs The approach to 5G for public safety is unlike anything else. While 5G connectivity will ultimately bring a combination of benefits like ultra-low latency and ultra-high speeds to support all kinds of users, it’s essential AT&T approach 5G in a different way for first responders.
That’s why, with FirstNet, AT&T is taking the right steps for public safety in a way that meets its unique mission needs. First responders maintain voice communications with priority and preemption on LTE, while the FirstNet network determines the best route for data traffic, whether that’s 5G or LTE spectrum.
Access to 5G
In addition to the 10 cities that now have access to AT&T’s 5G spectrum, first responders in parts of 38 cities and more than 20 venues already have access to AT&T mmWave (5G+) spectrum. And since we’re deploying 5G the right way for public safety, they maintain always-on priority and preemption across LTE – Band 14 spectrum plus all of AT&T’s commercial LTE spectrum bands – which currently covers 2.71 million square miles of the country.
By the end of 2021, AT&T expects to offer 5G+ connectivity in parts of more than 40 cities and 40 venues. And we’re continuing to roll out additional 5G connectivity for FirstNet in more communities nationwide.
How can first responders get 5G on FirstNet?
As a FirstNet subscriber, there is no additional charge for 5G connectivity. All first responders need to access 5G is a FirstNet Ready® 5G device, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G or the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, which are now available for pre-order. And to ensure public safety everywhere can access the power of FirstNet, individual verified first responders not already on FirstNet can sign up online or at the more than 5,000 AT&T retail stores across the country.
Feedback
Deputy Chief Tim Craig, Operations Division, Sisters-Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District (Oregon) said, “As a rapidly evolving incident, the volatility of this fire was incredible. As a result of the extreme fire behavior, it was my responsibility to keep fire officials apprised of the conditions on the ground and anticipated impacts to our District. FirstNet MegaRange allowed me to send and receive calls, texts, emails and utilize all the apps on my phone and tablet with confidence when others were struggling to get signal.”
Reliable Connectivity
From improving coverage to launching 5G on FirstNet AT&T is committed to public safety Jason Porter, President, Public Sector and FirstNet, AT&T said, “Record-breaking wildfires and other natural disasters this year have disrupted businesses and forced families to leave their homes. But as communities evacuate, our first responders run toward the danger."
"That’s why public safety has FirstNet. We’re providing reliable connectivity to first responders, and doing it the right way for their unique mission needs. From improving coverage with MegaRange to launching 5G on FirstNet in more areas across the country, we’re committed to being by public safety’s side no matter the emergency.”
Public safety
Edward Parkinson, CEO, FirstNet Authority said, “Public safety told us they needed a dedicated communications platform for their lifesaving mission and FirstNet continues to deliver."
"Launching unique technology to support responders in rural areas, enabling redundant communications for emergency communications centers and evolving public safety’s network with growing access to 5G are key accomplishments for FirstNet. We look forward to continuing to work with public safety and AT&T to drive innovative solutions for America’s first responders.”