Avon FRS collaborates with comms giant

Avon Fire and Rescue Service and Airbus have developed new command software designed to be the “first step” in fully digitising the incident ground.

According to a statement, the solution collates operational information, mapping, GPS data, communications as well as real time tracking. It was developed in response to the Grenfell Tower disaster, as well as wider service requirements.

Speaking of the technology, a spokesperson said: “As the software develops, it will reduce the need for radio messages, and can instead be used to seamlessly disseminate actions and information to those who need it across the fireground.

“The new software is fully operational on AF&RS’ new state-of-the-art command unit. It will allow simultaneous communication to mobile date terminals across the service’s vehicles and officers.”

Ben Thompson, special projects station manager for Avon, said: “This is a brilliant step forward for us as a service. With [this technology], we are able to fully upgrade and roll out our new command unit, and begin to embed new processes and safeguards across the service.”

The service’s risk intelligence watch manager Sean Perry said: “Airbus has created a system that is configurable in so many ways. This enables it to be versatile enough to be continually updated, as well as allowing us to customise it to our own requirements.”

The two organisations have collaborated on the project for the last three years.

Media contact

Philip Mason
Managing Editor, Critical Communications Portfolio
Tel: +44 (0)20 3874 9216
Philip.mason@markallengroup.com