Overview

Next SIEC Meeting: Sept 22, 2010 1:30 - 3:00 PM LSP Headquarters 7919 Independence Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70806

Request Access To LWIN: System Access Policy Sample Request Letter User Information Form Talkgroup Request Form Radio ID Request Form

Communications interoperability refers to the ability of emergency service agencies to communicate across disciplines and jurisdictions via wireless networks to exchange real time voice, data and imagery information. At the most basic level, interoperability allows two or more parties to  exchange information directly. 

Initial widespread attention was given to communications interoperability after the terrorist attacks in 2001. However, the importance of interoperable communications was reinforced during disaster mitigation efforts following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.  The devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina severely hampered the ability of emergency responders operating on the statewide 800MHz analog system to communicate with other emergency service personnel. In addition, communications systems maintained by local governments suffered severe and debilitating damage which further restricted communications between emergency responders.  Louisiana’s analog statewide and local communications systems are highly disparate. These systems range from recently deployed systems to aged and even out-dated systems including incompatible and aging communications equipment and infrastructure.

The State of Louisiana Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan envisions infrastructure, governance, standard operating procedures, technology, training and exercises to support a statewide system accessible to all state and local first responders, with capacity and capability to transmit emergency communications across the spectrum from daily usage to a surge during an unknown catastrophic event.

Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee

The SIEC membership is composed of all appropriate first responder and support organizations. Operationally, the Subcommittee has full authority to design, construct, administer and maintain a statewide interoperable communications system with capacity to transport voice, data, and imagery in support of full response to any emergency event.

In the News The Broadband for First Responders Act of 2010 has been introduced to the House of Representatives to reallocate the 700MHz D Block Spectrum for Public Safety. This would allow first responder agencies priority access, spectral foundation for a nationwide wireless broadband network, and greater flexibility to peruse partnership with other government and critical-infrastructure entities. Although the FCC plans to auction D Block to commercial operations early next year, Public Safety has acquired many valuable sponsors including the “Big 7” government organizations. The Association of Public Safety Communications Officials have been anticipating the D Block reallocation bill and, as expressed by Richard Mirgon, President APCO, they feel confident in their efforts.

Louisiana Wireless Information Network System Coverage Map The map provides current and projected system coverage areas for the state of Louisiana. Click here to view the map