Funds Will Improve Communications for First Responders

(Ivyland, PA) – Today, Pennsylvania Congressman Patrick Murphy (D-8th District) joined Commissioner Chairman Charles H. Martin, Harris Gubernick, co-chair of the Bucks County Public Safety Committee, and first responders to announce $300,000 in federal funding he secured for the Bucks County public safety community. The funds will support interoperability and information sharing across the Bucks County public safety system, increasing law enforcement, EMS, and fire services’ access to critical data to improve response to emergency situations. In addition, this data sharing project will improve emergency and routine response to public safety calls while helping ensure the safety of first responders on the job.

This project will develop a common data sharing infrastructure in Bucks County by purchasing the necessary equipment and software technology to provide the common platform. This will enhance communication among emergency response agencies in Bucks- meaning that first responders and Bucks families are made safer by better coordination and faster response times.

“Fighting for funding that gives our brave first responders the resources they need to keep Bucks families safe is a critical part of my job,” said Rep. Patrick Murphy. “Improving interoperability and information sharing among our fire, EMS, and police departments will help ensure the safety of first responders on the job.”

“When it comes to emergency preparedness and the value of our first responders, we understand the need to have Bucks County be at the forefront of technology. I appreciate Congressman Murphy's ability to bring us back a grant to get started and purchase the software to make this happen,” said Commissioner Chairman Charles H. Martin.

“On behalf of the Bucks County Public Safety Committee, I would like to thank Congressman Murphy for his support of the Bucks County public safety community. This Public Safety Data Communications Project will allow for mission critical information to be shared across the services – law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services. This sharing will ensure the safety of those who serve as well as those who are served,” said Bucks County Public Safety Committee Chair Harris Gubernick.

For Immediate Release, March 8, 2010
Contact: Kate Hansen, (202) 225-4276