Michael Coad, Senior Vice President, Product Management, Sonim Technologies, Inc. explains rugged device value for responders needing operational reliability within demanding regulatory frameworks
Our firefighters, safety workers, and first responders are under more pressure and performing in more hazardous and difficult environments than ever before.
Studies have found that climate change has already led to an increase in wildfire season length, wildfire frequency, and burned area.
The wildfire season has also expanded in many regions because of factors including warmer springs, longer summer dry seasons, and drier soils and vegetation.
Constant, year-round fire dangers in large swaths of the US have a huge impact on our first responders and is driving the need for more durable, secure, and rugged mobile devices that offer software applications that are applicable for use in the field.
Public safety workers also face tough, rough, dirty jobsites, meaning the risk for mobile device damage or breakage is high.
According to one source, 89% of first responders use their mobile phones as part of their everyday work tasks, highlighting the importance of real-time communications as the bedrock of public safety.
Bottom line: there is a critical and urgent need for mobile-friendly technology to ensure first responders can work anywhere they’re called and stay connected to the people they serve, even in remote areas.
Despite the high probability mobile devices may be damaged in challenging first responder work environments, budgets are generally tight and the procurement cycles long for federal, state, and local governments, leaving little room for breakdowns of technology and broken phones.
Going ‘rugged’ for consistent, clear communications
There are five key reasons why fire and public safety workers should consider rugged devices when choosing handheld mobile phones:
Lower total cost of ownership
Rugged devices hold their value for longer than non-rugged devices, cost less to repair, and don’t require expensive aftermarket accessories.
Using rugged devices reduces the need to replace broken or damaged devices, which can result in missed calls and communications with team members during emergencies.
Built for extreme environments
Devices designed for first responders should be drop-resistant and able to survive drops onto hard surfaces.
Rugged mobile phones should also be safe to use in hazardous environments where flammable materials may be present and resist dirt, water, and chemicals.
The ability to remain operational in extreme temperatures and have non-incendive ratings is especially important for firefighters and public safety workers.
Devices should also be equipped with loud speakers that can be heard clearly in noisy environments.
Enhanced mobile features
Push-to-talk (PTT) capabilities are extremely important for rugged devices designed for first responders.
PTT is helpful for public safety workers who rely on one-touch walkie-talkie style communications.
Modern PTT provides the ability to instantly share files, including videos, which is useful in situations where a visual understanding of the situation is critical.
Devices equipped with a 5000mAh battery ensure longer battery life for all-day productivity, while built-in cameras help document activity at the worksite.
Integrated security
Built-in security features ensure public safety workers have a secure means of communicating, creating mobile workflows, and sending information to and from the cloud, including rural areas.
Other software-based features for public safety applications include Mobile Device Management, barcode scanning, and SOS modes that trigger “man down” or “lone worker” alerts.
Dedicated public safety networks
Rugged devices should provide built-in support for full use of dedicated public safety broadband networks like AT&T FirstNet, Verizon Frontline, or T-Mobile T-Priority.
This support offers extended coverage, particularly in rural and remote areas, and can handle large amounts of data.
These networks allow firefighters and first responders to tap into specialised capabilities required to meet mission needs, helping them to protect their communities.
Features that promote ease of use allow first responders and public safety workers to focus on their mission to keep the communities they serve safe.
Addressing today’s communication challenges
Firefighters, first responders, and public safety workers operate in some of the most demanding and unpredictable environments, where communication, speed, and reliability can mean the difference between life and death.
Challenges such as extreme weather, hazardous conditions, and limited connectivity are why traditional consumer-grade devices often fall short and could compromise operational efficiency and safety.
Rugged mobile devices specifically engineered to withstand harsh environments, resist water and dust, endure drops and shocks, and function reliably in extreme temperatures, ensure uninterrupted communication and performance in critical moments.
Integrating rugged mobile devices into public safety operations offers voluminous benefits that directly support mission success.
By adopting ruggedised technology, our firefighters, public safety workers, and first responders can focus on what matters most—delivering more effective and timely responses to the communities they serve.
About the author
Michael Coad is senior vice president, product management, at Sonim Technologies, and has been with the company for nearly 15 years.
Prior to Sonim, Coad served as a consultant for Comcast’s wireless business and was vice president of partner development for Qualcomm, Inc.
He has deep expertise in advanced design, development, and management of wireless products, services, and applications, particularly for mobile wireless markets using 5G/4G technologies.