Networked Fire Services Partnership Deploys new Communications Interface

The Networked Fire Services Partnership (NFSP) has deployed a new interface between the control rooms of its members and the Airwave emergency communications network.

NFSP – which brings together the fire and rescue services for Devon and Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire, and Hampshire and the Isle of Wight – began using a new dispatch communication system (DCS) in October with interfaces provided by NEC Software Solutions.

This came as the new DCS was deployed as part of an extension of the use of Airwave until it is replaced by the Emergency Services Network, although the interface will be compatible with the latter when it becomes operational.

NEC collaborated with NFSP in developing the new interface, which is compatible with the existing control room communication system used by the individual services and the new DCS. The company said it ensures that the services can continue to respond to incidents as quickly and effectively as possible.