By Julie Thompson at The Chronicle Online   Columbia County’s Emergency Operations Center has added enhanced capabilities to its operations with the purchase of three portable communications units. Columbia County is the first jurisdiction in the state of Oregon to employ such devices. Dubbed “PodRunners” by the manufacturer, the small but powerful equipment is…Continue reading Columbia County—early adopter of portable comm units

When it comes to incidents where rapid, reliable communication is essential, wildfires top the list. Often fast moving and highly unpredictable, these natural disasters can turn on a dime and suddenly threaten people and structures that moments before seemed to be out of harm’s way. Being able to receive and analyze data quickly so resources…Continue reading Wildfire Operations Need Portable Satellite Systems

There was a time when first responders did not have mobile incident command centers — at least nothing like what’s available today. In many cases it was just maps spread out on the hood of a squad car. That said, there are few people (if any) who would question the need for these advanced systems…Continue reading Dynamic and Deployable: What First Responders Need

    While the response to an emergency situation can be coordinated from a distance to some extent, it stands to reason that managing an incident as close to its front line as possible will be far more effective. Any organization that has a portable command center can confirm that for you. When it comes…Continue reading 4 Ways a Command Center Increases Readiness