The Riviera Beach (FL) Police Department and Fire-Rescue Department are transitioning to FirstNet by issuing FirstNet-capable smartphones to all police officers and firefighters.

FirstNet is a nationwide communications platform dedicated to America's first responders and public safety community. Built with AT&T, in a public‐private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority), it is designed to give emergency responders' communications capabilities a major boost, providing a reliable and highly secure connection.

Police Chief Michael Madden said, "In conjunction with our recent body camera deployment, we issued each of our Police Officers a smartphone on FirstNet, causing a major shift in the way we collect and share information imperative to our mission. It bridges many gaps on the technology forefront and drastically improves communications between first responders and with our community at large."

When a major event occurs, it's important to share data with other responders. The Riviera Beach agencies say FirstNet provides a single, interoperable solution to easily communicate across agencies and jurisdictions.

"The FirstNet priority and preemption feature creates an environment of clear and constant communications. This new capability will prove to be essential during times of hyper telecommunication activities which would otherwise limit access to the network," said Fire Chief John Curd.

"We took action when first responders said they needed better tools to keep their communities – and themselves – out of harm's way. FirstNet will help first responders in Riviera Beach, Florida and across the country perform at the highest levels," said Joe York, president, AT&T Florida. "We're honored to play a part in that transformation and applaud Riviera Beach Police and Fire Rescue Departments for helping to lead the way."

"FirstNet is the exclusive communications platform built with AT&T for public safety, inspired by public safety – there is no substitution for this network that they fought for," said Edward Parkinson, Acting CEO, FirstNet Authority. "We look forward to supporting the Riviera Beach Police and Fire Rescue Departments' use of FirstNet, making sure it delivers what they need, when they need it."

To learn more about the Riviera Beach Police and Fire Rescue Departments, go to www.rivierabch.com/police or www.rivierabch.com/fire.

To learn more about FirstNet, go to FirstNet.com.