Utilizing a Public Safety DAS may make the difference in whether or not an emergency first responder can adequately do their job.
Many kinds of modern construction processes and building materials end up either degrading or completely blocking wireless communications, either within the building itself or connecting externally. In response, DAS (Distributed Antenna Systems) were developed and can extend wireless coverage within buildings and to help get signals out of the building. When it comes to public safety, DAS is becoming a real necessity, as first responders need to be able to communicate with one another to appropriately address an emergency situation. Let’s take a look at why Public Safety DAS are so important and how legislation is evolving around the technology.
Why Take Advantage of DAS?
In terms of safety, DAS technology solutions are able to ensure that in a crisis situation, first responders can properly communicate with one another and address the situation with haste. Whether it’s a natural disaster or a security threat, emergency first responders rely on communication to properly assess and respond to an emergency scenario. When lives are at risk, there’s simply no room for first responders not having adequate access to location information, video streaming, and voice communication technology—and in a world where far too many buildings have little or even no signal coverage, it’s important that we find ways to circumvent this issue.
Legislation to Include Public Safety DAS
Some cities, like Washington D.C. or Columbus, Ohio, are beginning to implement legislation that requires public safety DAS to be included in the construction of most new buildings. In fact, the NFPA, a United States Trade Organization, created the NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code. This code provides the latest and most up-to-date safety provisions in meeting society’s safety demands and includes the use of public safety distributed antenna systems for use by first responders. While legislation varies by locality, many jurisdictions draw upon the NFPA’s code, among other organizations, to create their own local ordinances.
Going Above and Beyond
While not every locality may require installing a public safety DAS, it’s a wise idea to go above and beyond your local codes. Not only can a public safety DAS help owners take responsibility for their building and ensure any of its occupants are as safe as possible, but it also protects you in the event of retroactive legislation that requires any existing buildings to be upgraded with a public safety DAS. Stay ahead of the curve when it comes to building safety and take a look into installing a Public Safety DAS in your building.
Get in Touch with FiberPlus
FiberPlus has been providing data communication solutions for over 25 years in the Mid Atlantic Region for a number of different markets. What began as a cable installation company for Local Area Networks has grown into a leading provider of innovative technology solutions improving the way our customers communicate and keeping them secure. Our solutions now include:
- Structured Cabling (Fiberoptic, Copper and Coax for inside and outside plant)
- Electronic Security Systems (Access Control & CCTV Solutions)
- Wireless Access Point installations
- Public Safety DAS
- Audio/Video Services (Intercoms and Display Monitors)
- Support Services
- Specialty Systems
- Design/Build Services
FiberPlus promises the communities in which we serve that we will continue to expand and evolve as new technology is introduced within the telecommunications industry.
Have any questions? Interested in one of our services? Call FiberPlus today 800-394-3301, email us at info@fiberplusinc.com, or visit our contact page. Our offices are located in the Washington, DC metro area, Richmond, VA, and Columbus, OH. In Pennsylvania, please call Pennsylvania Networks, Inc. at 814-259-3999.
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