Mobile Data System Allows Information Sharing Between Police, Fire Personnel In Iowa Town

  • Dec 17, 2007

BIO-key International Inc. recently announced a new-customer contract award from the City of Dubuque (Iowa) Fire Department for MobileRescue, BIO-key's wireless messaging and data exchange solution for fire and emergency response.

By using MobileRescue, Dubuque's Fire Department personnel are now better able to track, deploy and manage resources using laptops -- installed in the agency's ambulances and command vehicles -- as well as desktop computers used by shift commanders. MobileRescue also allows Dubuque County's 911 Center to quickly and efficiently dispatch fire apparatus and rescue units to incidents and to communicate with responders while en route and on scene.

"Dispatchers love it," said Assistant Fire Chief Rick Steines. "With MobileRescue's interface to the county's computer aided dispatch (CAD) system, they know the current status of every unit. Additionally they're not tying up our tactical voice radio channels sending address and other information, which is now available to the responder on their screen."

A key factor behind Dubuque's selection of BIO-key's MobileRescue was that the solution enables the city's fire and rescue agencies to communicate with its police officers who also respond to most calls for service. Dubuque's Police Department has been a user of MobileCop, BIO-key's wireless law enforcement messaging and query solution, since 1994. Now all City fire, rescue and police personnel can share information with each other silently and securely to respond to an emergency call.

"Many jurisdictions that use MobileCop for law enforcement have discovered that adding MobileRescue for their fire and rescue agencies typically improves the efficiency and effectiveness of their first responders," said Michael DePasquale, president and CEO of BIO-key. "Deploying both solutions ultimately reduces ongoing IT support costs, generates additional savings in initial training and enables inter-agency information sharing while giving each department its own solution specifically designed to meet its unique needs."

Featured

  • Security Industry Association Announces the 2026 Security Megatrends

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has identified and forecasted the 2026 Security Megatrends, which form the basis of SIA’s signature annual Security Megatrends report defining the top 10 factors influencing both near- and long-term change in the global security industry. Read Now

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden Door Controls has relaunched its CV-7600 card readers in response to growing market demand for a more secure alternative to standard proximity credentials that can be easily cloned. CV-7600 readers support MIFARE DESFire EV1 & EV2 encryption technology credentials, making them virtually clone-proof and highly secure.

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.