Addressing the restrictions first responders in St. Peters and other cities in St. Charles County experience in talking to one another directly, a new communications system is to allow all emergency personnel throughout the county to interact.
The newly installed emergency radio, which cost $34m, gives all the fire, police, paramedics, and other emergency personnel a way to reach one another. In order to hook up the various communities, the county has put up 12 brand new radio towers, and gave car and portable radios to public works personnel, as well as first responders.
The county has also upgraded its emergency 911 answering and dispatch system. Coverage has been expanded in areas where it was inconsistent, and improved vocal clarity is making it easier for communicators to understand each other.
According to Jennifer George, the county’s assistant admin director, the new system will enable first responders to react to emergencies more effectively. In the event of a fire, for example, when a number of agencies respond to the scene, the new system will allow them to work together to coordinate their response.
The improvements in St. Charles County will be echoed by Jefferson County and St. Louis County, both of which plan to upgrade their systems soon.
County officials could consider working with a postcard printing company on a mailer for county residents, explaining the new upgrades and how they will enhance response.
