What first responders say they need from mission-critical communications

Around the world, first responders rely more than ever on mission-critical communications. 

According to the 2024 Verizon Frontline Public Safety Communications Survey, 1,659 first responders in the USA emphasised several key areas: 

• Network reliability
• Real-time situational awareness
• 5G and interoperability

Around 65% of responders stated that a reliable, resilient network is essential for day-to-day operations. 

During emergencies, this need grows even more urgent, with nearly three-quarters of responders ranking reliability as the top communication factor. 

First responders, who operate in unpredictable environments and need to make split-second decisions to save lives, cannot afford dropouts or slow data.

Public safety increasingly relies on real-time data. More than half of responders pointed to video and image sharing as crucial tools during emergencies. 

These technologies allow for faster decision-making and more informed responses on the ground. 

Firefighters, EMS and law enforcement officials highlighted live video feeds, drone footage and enhanced mapping as ways to significantly improve situational awareness.

5G technology continues to transform how first responders handle crisis situations. 

Nearly 77% of responders see 5G as a critical tool for the future of public safety communications – rather than traditional two-way radios. 

From real-time video streaming to improved response times, 5G offers the speed and bandwidth required for seamless data sharing across teams.

During multi-agency responses, seamless communication across different systems and devices is critical. 

Around 93% of responders stress the need for interoperability to avoid delays and confusion. 

Whether it’s linking up law enforcement, fire departments, or EMS services, the ability to collaborate across networks and devices remains a top concern.

Hypha’s solution offers this resilient, uninterrupted communication without needing additional infrastructure, ensuring first responders remain connected no matter the conditions. 

This is crucial in remote or disaster-hit areas where standard networks fail and aligns with the need for reliable, interoperable and versatile communications systems.

Hypha ensures that first responders have the robust and flexible networks required to perform their life-saving duties with greater confidence and efficiency. 

See it in practice here.