LASD deploys backup HF solution

The Rockwell Collins UrgentLink communications network has been deployed within the Los Angeles (LA) County area for the LA County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) to provide a countywide backup system for use during disasters.

UrgentLink is a nationwide HF communications system that has ground stations throughout the US to provide redundant coverage when normal communications infrastructure fails.

To maximise coverage across the 10,600 square kilometres of Los Angeles County the LASD serves, three facilities were strategically selected for the installation of the network hardware.

“The residents that we serve deserve to have the confidence in knowing that, even under the most extreme conditions, some communications platforms will be operational during a disaster,” said Dean Gialamas, Division Director of the LA Sheriff’s Technology and Support Division.

“This is an important addition towards expanding our disaster communications capabilities.”

“The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department continues to lead the nation by deploying the UrgentLink disaster communications system,” said Scott Edson, Executive Director of the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS) and the sheriff’s department’s former chief of Special Operations.

“Given the most recent disasters in Northern California and elsewhere, I believe other law enforcement and fire service agencies in California and across the country would do well to consider adopting this unique disaster communications system as well.”

The solution, suitable for first responders, hospitals and critical industries’ operations, connects users to other UrgentLink subscribers, mobiles phones, landlines or LMR systems.

The LASD plans to expand its use of the system to offer increased regional coverage in the event of a disaster.

Image courtesy Rockwell Collins.

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