Ascent Integrated Technologies Launches Rugged Smartwatch for Enhanced First Responder Safety
The device, developed as part of the NIST First Responder Smart Tracking (FRST) Challenge hosted by Indiana University, delivers real-time visibility into responders’ location and health status.
Ascent Integrated Technologies (Ascent), a NIST PSCR prize challenge winner, has developed a rugged smartwatch to improve situational awareness for first responders. The device provides real-time location tracking and biometric monitoring, enhancing safety for operational teams. U.S. Air Force units, the Department of Defense, and fire departments are currently piloting the technology.
Ascent Integrated Technologies (Ascent), a leading developer of advanced situational awareness solutions, has unveiled a rugged smartwatch designed to support first responders in high-risk environments. The device, developed as part of the NIST First Responder Smart Tracking (FRST) Challenge hosted by Indiana University, delivers real-time visibility into responders’ location and health status.
Recognizing the challenges faced by emergency personnel, Ascent’s smartwatch integrates precise three-dimensional location tracking with biometric monitoring, enabling incident commanders to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently without interfering with responders’ work. The device is capable of detecting critical health risks, including cardiac anomalies, providing an added layer of protection for operational teams.
Currently, Ascent’s smartwatch is deployed with U.S. Air Force operational units and the Department of Defense. It is also being piloted by fire departments to gather feedback and optimize the technology for broader public safety applications.
Paul Couston, CEO and Co-Founder of Ascent, stated,
“Our goal is to provide first responders with tools that enhance both their safety and operational efficiency. This smartwatch represents a major step forward in real-time situational awareness for emergency teams.”
Agencies interested in participating in ongoing pilot programs or learning more about the technology can contact Paul Couston directly at paul@ascentitech.com
