"To date it's been necessary for stations to undertake a weekly information update to the Appliance PCs using a floppy disk
arrangement. In addition ICT technicians have had to visit each fire station and update the computers whenever a technical
fix or update was required. Now, with the introduction of wireless technology, the PCs and information can be updated remotely.
Not only will this improve the speed of update but will ensure timely dissemination and utilisation of information to fire
fighters." said Ian Davies, ICT Operations Manager, Cheshire Fire Service.
Using the onboard computers, fire-fighters can call up accurate information whilst responding to a 999 call. En route to,
and at the site of an incident, details of a particular location and significant features such as flammable and explosive
materials, hazardous substances can be viewed. With this information, fire-fighters are able to quickly make an informed decision
about the incident strategy thereby helping reduce the chance of casualties and damage to property.
Updating the information remotely ensures that all computers have the most current information as soon as it becomes available
without the reliance on manual intervention. This process will help to prevent failures, oversights and delays that can happen
when relying on an individual to conduct updates.
Neil Andrews, Xpert Communications said "We have a very strong relationship with Cheshire Fire Service that has spanned many
years and we're extremely pleased to have won this contract. Wireless technology will bring a new dimension to the Fire Service
helping them put critical information into the hands of fire-fighters, improve its response to emergencies and deliver an
improved public service."
Each of the fire stations in Cheshire will have a Cisco Wireless Access Point installed in the appliance bay. Thirty seven
of the fire appliances already have a ruggedized PC installed which will have a client adapter attached to allow the PC to
connect to the Local Area Network when the appliance is in its bay. Sophisticated security products will be implemented to
ensure that only authorised PCs and users and connect to the Fire Service network. Cisco's Wireless LAN Solution Engine will
provide a management platform to enable the devices to be remotely managed from the Service Headquarters in Winsford.
Xpert commenced installation in January and the new system will be up and running by the end of March 2005.