Tom McDonald
CEO, BeSafe Technologies

The FCC has held a series of broadband workshops over the past few weeks all focused on developing a national broadband strategy. It’s no surprise then that today the FCC turned its attention to public safety. Innovations enabled by broadband are paving the way to unparalleled public safety platforms.

America’s broadband networks are providing smarter, more streamlined tools that are better equipping the public safety community and first responders. Broadband is also enabling real-time communication and the instantaneous delivery of critical information when responding to a public safety emergency. It is transforming the way we respond to emergencies throughout the country.

At BeSafe Technologies, we have been experiencing the benefits of broadband for over a decade. We use broadband technology to deliver critical information to first responders. Real-time building layout information is critical to firefighters, police, SWAT leaders and other first responders. We also deliver contact information, aerial photographs, live video feeds and utility shut-off valve locations. How are we able to provide this service? Because of America’s robust broadband infrastructure. It is precisely the broadband networks that allow us to deliver this kind of critical information to emergency personnel, increasing the safety of students, residents and employees.

I commend the FCC for focusing on the issue of public safety and for taking into account how emergency preparedness fits into a national broadband strategy. Finally, I would stress that in order to continue the work that companies like mine are doing that lead to a safer America, we must not forget about the broadband infrastructure that delivers these life-saving applications. By delivering critical information and enabling rapid communication, broadband is helping more Americans “be safe.”

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