Audit: technology hampers first responders

Communication between emergency responders during a disaster could be hampered by incompatible technology. That's unless upgrades are made to the system, according to state auditors. The state’s department of Department of Audits and Accounts concluded that while more than 100-million dollars is devoted to first responders, it seems the agencies aren’t really talking to one another.

In addition to regional police and fire agencies, there are statewide organizations, including GEMA and the Georgia State Patrol, operating with different communications networks. Some equipment is old and out dated. Some agencies use cell phones, and walkie-talkies while others use radios.

But, citing the lessons learned on 9/11 when New York fire and police were unable to communicate because each uses a different radio frequency, the audit suggests a single agency coordinate emergency efforts.

One suggestion is to let Georgia Emergency Management Agency act as the central clearing house. However, the audit cites a response from the Georgia State Patrol, which believes that it best [positioned to develop the state’s so called inter operability efforts.