First responseReliable communications during natural disasters, emergencies

Airmen assigned to the 126th Air Refueling Wing Communications Flight (CF) at Scott AFB in Illinois keep the lines of communication open during an emergency.

An Illinois National Guard release reports that the Contingency Response Communications System (CRCS) is one piece of next generation equipment in the 126th CF’s arsenal in the battle for reliable emergency communications. The CRCS is an Internet Protocol (IP)-based, universal solution that allows first responders to communicate and exchange information with radio interoperability, live streaming video, wireless Internet, and voice over IP (VoIP) services.

Janet Napolitano, DHS secretary, said the next generation emergency communications equipment must be mobile, interoperable, and easily operated and the CRCS is suitable for the task. The CRCS is mobile because all of its equipment is kept in a secure container attached to the rear of a Humvee. The equipment is capable of wireless Internet transmissions to make phone calls from remote areas. A surveillance camera attached to the exterior allows commanders to assess the scene and make decision using a real-time picture.

Air Force Tech. Sgt. Christopher Kruse of O’Fallon, Illinois, is with the 126th CF, and he oversees CRCS training for CF personnel. His most recent class was conducted during the unit’s March Unit Training Assembly, and focused on set-up and initial start up procedures. Kruse said the system is easily set up within thirty minutes. Once set up is complete the CRCS allows emergency first responders quickly to communicate with military commanders through phone or Internet. The release notes that this quick communication decreases the gap between the front lines of a disaster to the critical decision-making authorities. Real-time decisions become possible and emergency/disaster relief efforts are precisely directed when and where they are needed.