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Core Goal #1: Interoperable Communications

First responders in every region in Maryland should have access to a fully digital, trunked radio system which all response partners can access in order to transmit and receive voice and data. First responders in every region should have robust CAD/RMS systems capable of coordinating dispatch data for all response partners and capable of transmitting data to systems such as WebEOC for consolidation and roll up of regional CAD data.

Why are Interoperable Communications important?

Interoperable communications is the ability for first responders to transmit voice and data communications seamlessly and in real-time, when needed, regardless of agency or jurisdictional boundary.  When communications systems are interoperable, police and firefighters responding to a routine incident or a catastrophic emergency can talk to and share information with each other to coordinate efforts and work effectively together under a common operating picture. Interoperability should address not simply voice communications but also sharing data across systems such as CCTV, CAD/RMS, or GIS.

 

 Strategic Plan for Interoperable Communications:

1A: First responders in every region in Maryland should have access to a fully digital, trunked radio system which all response partners can access in order to transmit and receive voice and data.

  • Develop a statewide interoperable radio communications plan and system in partnership with all state agencies and local jurisdictions.
  • Develop interim/gap solutions in order to sustain operability and interoperability as the State migrates to a fully interoperable communications system.
  • First responders in the field should have handheld radios capable of accessing the statewide communications system.

1B: First responders in every region should have robust CAD/RMS systems capable of coordinating dispatch data for all response partners and capable of transmitting data to systems such as WebEOC for consolidation and roll up of regional CAD data.

  • Ensure that all state and local law enforcement agencies have access to modern CAD/RMS.
  • Provide the architecture to integrate state and local CAD systems in order to share, consolidate, and roll up regional data.
  • Provide sufficient bandwidth and encourage the integration of state and local records management systems to share data with the MCAC, MJOC, and local CAD.

1C: Enhance information sharing across jurisdictions and disciplines by utilizing interoperable architecture and applications to include incorporating the next generation GIS-based/situational awareness common platform for Maryland and disseminate it to state and local partners.

  • Integrate existing and new information systems and databases in order to create an electronic information sharing platform that all first responders can access.
  • Create a GIS-based situational awareness platform for Maryland that uses next generation technologies, and disseminate it to state and local partners.