Traditionally, first responders operate in silos, with each department responsible for running their its own networks. Therefore, interoperability during emergencies is essential. network. This can hinder the interoperability needed in times of significant emergency situations or disasters.
On July 1, 2016, the Alberta First Responder Radio Communications System (AFRRCS) was fully activated. This is a province - wide APCO Project 25 (P25) trunked two-way radio network for first responders in municipal, provincial and First Nations agencies. The AFRRCS system will also carry carries all the radio traffic of the various government agencies that currently use wireless/radio communications, such as including Alberta Environment , and Sustainable Resource Development, Alberta Sheriffssheriffs, Alberta Health Services, as well as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
The system is uses a mix of 700 MHz (digital trunking system), and, in some areas such as mountainous terrains and similar regions, a “VHF overlay” involving non-trunked-conventional- P25 VHF-hi (136-174) frequencies. The system, which cost $438 million,139 will assist in 121, not only enables a fully coordinated joint response among first responders from different agencies, and will it also reduce reduces the cost of radio system infrastructure. Participation in AFRRCS by first responder agencies is voluntary and will cost costs the province an additional $17 million yearly 140 in upkeep and rental cost for the towers. Municipalities and their agencies (and wireless providers) have access to the towers for free, but will have to pay for the radios and equipment needed to access the network122.141
References
139. 121Alberta Government. New first responder radio system launching July 1 will better protect Albertans, 23 June 23, 2016. Accessed July 5, 201611 March 2021.140.
122CBC. New radio system that played ‘lifesaving role’ in Fort McMurray launched across Alberta, June 24 , 2016. Accessed July 5, 2016.
141. CBC. New radio system that played ‘lifesaving role’ in Fort McMurray launched across Alberta, June 24, 2016. Accessed July 5, 201611 March 2021.