Providing Vital Communications During Natural Disasters or Emergencies

SCOTT AFB, ILL (03/09/2012)(readMedia)-- By Airman 1st Class Dustin Clary and Maj. Jennifer C. Howsare, 126th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Office

SCOTT AFB, Ill. - Airmen assigned to the 126th Air Refueling Wing Communications Flight (CF) at Scott AFB keep the lines of communication open during an emergency.

The Contingency Response Communications System (CRCS) is one piece of next generation equipment in the 126th CF's arsenal in the battle for reliable emergency communications. The CRCS is an Internet Protocol (IP) based, universal solution that allows first responders to communicate and exchange information with radio interoperability, live streaming video, wireless Internet, and voice over IP (VoIP) services.

Janet Napolitano, the Secretary of Homeland Security, said the next generation emergency communications equipment must be mobile, interoperable and easily operated and the CRCS fits the bill. The CRCS is mobile because all of its equipment is kept in a secure container attached to the rear of a Humvee. The equipment is capable of wireless Internet transmissions to make phone calls from remote areas. A surveillance camera attached to the exterior allows commanders to assess the scene and make decision using a real-time picture.

Air Force Tech. Sgt. Christopher Kruse of O'Fallon, Ill., with the 126th CF oversees CRCS training for CF personnel. His most recent class was conducted during the unit's March Unit Training Assembly, and focused on set-up and initial start up procedures. Kruse said the system is easily set up within 30 minutes. Once set up is complete the CRCS allows emergency first responders to quickly communicate with military commanders through phone or Internet. This quick communication drastically decreases the gap between the front lines of a disaster to the critical decision-making authorities. Real-time decisions become possible and emergency/disaster relief efforts are precisely directed when and where they are needed.