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SAFECOM and NCSWIC Release the Paging: A Vital Link for Public Safety Document

Released

Author: Ted Lawson, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Joint SAFECOM/NCSWIC Technology Policy Committee Lead

Paging technology has continuously served as an integral part of public safety operations. This technology has evolved from simplistic, one-way tonal notification to more complex, two-way forms of communication that enable more immediate and appropriate response through the sharing of critical information. Paging technology brings value to public safety operations and public alerting because it facilitates immediate situational awareness.

CISA, SAFECOM, and the National Council of Statewide Interoperability Coordinators (NCSWIC) developed the Paging: A Vital Link for Public Safetydocument to promote a basic understanding of paging technology usage in emergency communications. The document describes the value of paging to public safety operations, outlines considerations when implementing paging technology, explores best practices surrounding paging technology use, and suggests considerations to be addressed as technology evolves. 

Stakeholders are encouraged to share this document with their colleagues. For questions about the document, please contact SAFECOMgovernance@cisa.dhs.gov or visit cisa.gov/safecom/technology for additional SAFECOM and NCSWIC technology resources. You can also follow CISA on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.