LIMA, OHIO -
At the scene of an emergency, firefighters rely on two-way radio equipment to ensure the safety of their co-workers as well as the well being of the people their sworn to protect.
"All of our decisions and commands are made over the radio. So, it's very important to have good radio communication," said David McDermitt, Assistant Chief, Lima Fire Department.
The Federal Communications Commission wants to ensure firefighters and others who rely on two-way radios can continue to communicate effectively as the demand for radio frequencies increases.
"Two-way radio is growing and is expected to grow for many years to come," said W.D. Miller, communications consultant with Radio Hospital.
By January 1, 2013, two-way radio users must switch their bandwidth to what's called narrowband technology.
"Essentially, we're doubling the frequencies. We can put more people on a better spectrum efficiency," said Miller.
Businesses also have to make the change.
"We have dump truck companies, HVAC-- home heating and cooling companies that use them, taxi cabs, schools. There's a lot of people that use radios," said Miller.
The lima fire department recently finished the upgrades. However, the Allen County Engineer's Office is waiting until after the winter season to switch to the narrowband technology. Employees there also know just how valuable radio communication can be.
"During the ice storm of 2005, when all the towers were down, and the communication of the land lines were down, the only way to communicate was through two-way radio systems," said P.J. Johnson, Equipment Superintendent, Allen County Engineer.
Once the transition is complete, agencies should pick up less interference from users assigned to similar frequencies.
