Puerto Rico is investing more than $3 million in 74 portable emergency communication systems.
SAN JUAN — Puerto Rico’s Department of Public Safety (DSP) announced a $3 million investment to acquire 74 FirstNet miniCRD emergency communication systems, designed to keep first responders connected during disasters and major emergencies.
According to DSP Secretary Arthur Garffer Croly, the initiative will strengthen the agency’s ability to maintain critical communications even when commercial cellular networks, internet service or the electrical grid fail.
“With these systems, we are expanding our capacity to support municipalities, emergency bureaus and first responders with mobile, autonomous and rapidly deployable technology,” Garffer Croly said.
Each FirstNet miniCRD functions as a portable cellular tower equipped with integrated satellite connectivity and access to FirstNet, the nationwide public safety communications network built with AT&T.
The systems can restore communications within minutes when traditional telecommunications infrastructure becomes unavailable due to natural disasters or other emergencies.
Officials said the portable units can be deployed in rural communities, remote areas, Vieques, Culebra, search-and-rescue operations and locations vulnerable to communication outages. Their compact design allows them to be transported by vehicle or helicopter for rapid activation in the field.
Scott Agnew, president of FirstNet, Built with AT&T, said the technology was specifically designed to support first responders during critical incidents by delivering secure and dedicated communications wherever they are needed.
