Enhancing Florida’s emergency response with portable FirstNet cell sites

January 16, 2025

After an active 2024 storm season saw 3 major hurricanes hit the Southeast, Florida is investing in critical connectivity for public safety by working with FirstNet®, Built with AT&T to acquire 50 mobile cell sites that it can self-deploy to boost connectivity during emergencies.

Mobile network assets for critical situations

Ideal for use in areas where communications may be temporarily unavailable, these mobile network assets – known as CRDs and miniCRDs –  link to FirstNet via satellite and do not rely on commercial power availability. As public safety’s wireless communications network, FirstNet enables agencies to own these devices, giving first responders greater command and control of their own network. 

“After a disaster impacts a community, communication is critical in our immediate response efforts,” said Kevin Guthrie, Executive Director, Florida Division of Emergency Management. “Having faster, more reliable communication will be a game-changer in how we can even better serve the public in their time of need.” 

Rapid deployment and flexibility

In the most hurricane prone state in the country, Florida emergency responders need reliable, on-the-go coverage that provides mission-critical support as they serve communities impacted by major disasters. These portable network assets can be deployed by a single person in a matter of minutes, providing dedicated FirstNet connectivity when and where they need it. With a coverage radius of up to a mile, CRDs are designed to be self-contained and easily transported on the back of a vehicle. Smaller and even more flexible, miniCRDs are comprised of 2 ultra-portable ruggedized suitcases and provide a coverage radius of up to ½ mile.  

“The State of Florida knows intimately the damage that hurricanes and other natural disasters can cause to their communities,” said Joe York, President, AT&T-Gulf States. “The recent acquisition of these deployable network assets emphasizes the state’s commitment to preparedness and how FirstNet is a critical component in overall disaster response planning. FirstNet is proud to help first responders in Florida and across the country perform at the highest levels during everyday emergencies and large-scale storms like Milton.”

Nationwide fleet dedicated to public safety

Built in public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority), FirstNet provides emergency responders with an entire public safety ecosystem of mission-ready tools and capabilities, as well as a nationwide fleet of 180+ deployable assets dedicated to supporting public safety – the only such fleet offered by any wireless provider. Recently, these assets were deployed to Florida by the FirstNet Response Operations Group™ (ROG) during Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton to provide critical connectivity for public safety on the frontlines.  

“FirstNet, Built with AT&T is the exclusive communications platform, built with and for public safety, inspired by public safety. There is no substitution for this purpose-built network,” said Joe Wassel, CEO, First Responder Network Authority. “We look forward to supporting the State of Florida and the public safety community with FirstNet, making sure it delivers what they need, when they need it.” 

Get connected with FirstNet

Speak with a representative to learn more about FirstNet for your organization. Individual first responders can also subscribe to FirstNet online or at their local AT&T store.