First responders go high-tech
In an age where man-made and natural disasters have become global phenomena, it is important to protect critical infrastructures and support the security and safety of people involved. An important part of this endeavour is enhancing communication between first responders and people involved in a disaster or crisis situation, with the aim of minimising injury and saving lives. Against this backdrop, the EU-funded project 'Innovative and novel first responders applications' (INFRA) sought to address this high-tech challenge. To achieve its aims, the project worked on researching and developing novel technologies for personal digital support systems to create a comprehensive secure emergency management system. It integrated location sensors, biometric sensors, video capabilities and thermal imaging technology, as well as sensors to identify hazardous materials (e.g. radiation), alert against gas leaks and detect fires. After much research and experimentation, the project team successfully designed an interoperable wireless communications system that enables first responders to communicate reliably and quickly with each other. Such a system would be able to support first responders in all kinds of crises related to critical infrastructures, even in subway tunnels or through thick concrete. Importantly, the project worked closely with end users to consider their requirements during the development process. This involvement also helped disseminate and exploit the project's results, particularly since virtually all its objectives had been met with a large degree of success. INFRA tested its first responder application in live environments, demonstrating its feasibility as well. It finalised the solution for first responders, creating a system that could redefine the market based on unparalleled interoperability for voice and data communications. Once this highly competitive technology is successfully exploited it could revolutionise how emergency situations are managed, rendering rescue operations much more efficient and helping to avoid unnecessary injury or deaths. The project's advances, findings and publications are located on the INFRA website and have now paved the way for the adoption and commercialisation of this promising state-of-the-art technology.
