More than 3,600 public safety agencies across the country have now joined FirstNet . That's a nearly 50% increase in the number of agencies subscribing to the nationwide public safety communications platform in less than 2 months , says AT&T.

With more than 250,000 connections on FirstNet, first responders from federal, state, local, and tribal public safety agencies continue to turn to FirstNet for the communications capabilities they need, especially during emergencies and large events.

"FirstNet is being purpose-built to favor the important work first responders do. This is challenging and time consuming. It's also necessary," said Chris Sambar, senior vice president, FirstNet at AT&T . "Much work still needs to be done to make sure FirstNet is a solution that meets the needs of all first responders. But we're proud of how FirstNet has been delivering for first responders and the communities they serve when help is most needed. And we're honored to see public safety embrace their network."

"We moved to the FirstNet system a few months before Hurricane Michael hit. And it was a no-brainer. Having the communications capabilities FirstNet provides was critical following the storm's devastation," said Colquitt Miller Emergency Services Director Doug Cofty. "Gaining that peace of mind around our communications meant we could focus on what mattered most—supporting our community."

The FirstNet network platform is continuing to serve the thousands of first responders and National Guard members who are still actively aiding in Hurricane Michael recovery efforts. Working with public safety, AT&T stationed two FirstNet Satellite Cell on Light Trucks (SatCOLTs) at the Harders Base Camp in Panama City, FL.

FirstNet is being built with AT&T, in public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority). It's designed with and for first responders, making public safety's mission the priority.

"Recent events continue to underscore the need for FirstNet," said FirstNet Authority Acting CEO Edward Parkinson. "We're still early in the build process, and we'll continue to work side-by-side with the public safety community to ensure FirstNet lives up to its promises. But to see FirstNet in action and hear how first responders across the country have already benefitted from the service is a remarkable start and a solid testament to why FirstNet was created."

For more about how FirstNet benefits public safety, go to FirstNet.com .