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Release Number: 09-207

For Immediate Release

Public Information Office

Deputy Larry McKinnon;

lmckinno @hcso.tampa.fl.us

(813) 247-8060

Who:

New Radio System Links Hillsborough County First Responders

Media Will View Working Demonstration of New Radio System

On July 20^th 2009, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Tampa Police Department and the Hillsborough County Fire Department will began utilizing a county wide radio system that allows emergency responders to directly communicate with each other in the field. This new level of inter-operability will enhance homeland security by calling upon critical resources very quickly, managing large events, and assisting each others in day to day public safety calls for service.

The 2009 hurricane season has begun and in the event the Tampa Bay area is affected by a major storm, this new communication system will allow all law enforcement and fire rescue units to communicate with each other regardless of jurisdiction. During crimes in progress when suspects cross jurisdictional boundaries, this system will enhance public safety by allowing police officers instant communications with each other on one common channel.

This new radio system will also include the following agencies:

1. University of South Florida
2. Hillsborough County School Security

The following agencies are not on the county wide system but will be monitoring the county wide talk group in their respective communication centers.

1. Tampa Fire Rescue
2. Tampa International Airport Police Department
3. Temple Terrace Police Department
4. Plant City Police Department        

Deputy Larry McKinnon

HCSO