First responders rely on radio communications as their lifeline and require enhanced communication awareness to protect themselves and their teams. Firefighters have a unique challenge and require radio communications which thrive in a dynamic fire scene environment.
In an article from FireRescue1, Robert Avsec argues that “the portable radio is the single-most versatile piece of equipment that a firefighter or officer can carry into a hazardous situation.” We agree. Reliable radio communications are vital to safe and effective fireground operations. That’s why KENWOOD Viking has developed FIRESafe® software to enhance fireground communication for portable users:
SET & FORGET
COMMON PROBLEM
Firefighter is on the wrong channel, the volume is too low, or the radio has accidentally turned off.
SOLUTION
Enabling the Fireground mode of operation is as easy as pressing a single button and ensures that the firefighter does not inadvertently lose communications with command. The keypad and channel selector can be locked as well as the volume level, so the radio cannot be accidentally turned off. A single button press switches the radio from dispatch mode to Fireground mode.
EVACUATION ALERT
COMMON PROBLEM
Firefighter misses an evacuation call.
SOLUTION
Firefighter hears a loud tone when an evacuation alert is received from a command radio. Digital signaling has a higher likelihood of being received because it is a short, repeated data message.
OUT OF RANGE (OOR) ALERT
COMMON PROBLEM
Firefighter unknowingly loses communications with command and the team.
SOLUTION
Firefighter receives a signal that he has lost communications through a visual and audible out of range alert tone.
COMMON PROBLEM
Firefighter is out of radio coverage.
SOLUTION
Using a patented P25 heartbeat technology, radio will activate OOR audible and visual indicators alerting first responder that he is no longer in range of command radio.
COMM CHECK
COMMON PROBLEM
Firefighter is unsure of radio coverage.
SOLUTION
Firefighter can quickly depress a button to perform a communications check and determine the strength of his signal.
VISUAL & AUDIBLE SIGNAL STRENGTH INDICATOR
COMMON PROBLEM
Firefighter does not know when he is out of communication range.
SOLUTION
More than just a visual RSSI, an audible RSSI enhances awareness and safety. Two warning tones are emitted when the RSSI level drops below a predefined threshold to alert the firefighter that he is at the threshold of radio coverage. Four tones warn of impending communication loss.
P25 AUTO SWITCH
COMMON PROBLEM
When nearing the out of range threshold, analog transmissions are very unclear.
SOLUTION
FIRESafe extends coverage range. The radio automatically switches to digital mode when analog transmissions become unclear (4 beeps). Once transmissions become clear enough (2 beeps), the radio will automatically switch back to analog mode.
We’re committed to making safe simple for fire departments so you can focus on what you do best – saving lives and protecting communities. Request additional information or schedule a free demo of KENWOOD Viking FIRESafe software today to learn more.
