There is an expectation that our public safety officials are prepared to respond quickly to emergency scenes with the correct equipment, supplies and personnel necessary to protect the public. Well, that was the case until Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast. Many people also believe that law enforcement officers have the type of computer programs that are depicted in the movies and on television. However, the technology what we see on television shows like Fox’s television show 24 is for the most part works-in-progress rather than systems-in-place.
Whether the incident is an automobile crash, a fire, a natural event or a criminal act, public safety agencies are dependent upon timely and accurate information. Their ability to react effectively is greatly diminished when this information is incorrect or unavailable. The public’s safety is dependent upon the ability of emergency services to have accurate and timely information.