FirstNet, Built with AT&T Connects New Mexico First Responders Battling Wildfires 

FirstNet®, Built with AT&T – the only network built with and for America’s first responders – has deployed dedicated portable network assets (SatCOLTs) from the FirstNet fleet to provide critical communications to public safety agencies and first responders currently battling the Calf Canyon-Hermit’s Peak and Cerro Pelado fires.

The Calf Canyon-Hermit’s Peak fire has forced thousands of residents from their homes after burning nearly 190,000 acres. We have deployed FirstNet SatCOLTs to the Forward Operating Base in Mora, providing first responders from local, state and federal agencies with unthrottled connectivity and advanced capabilities to communicate with one another.

The Cerro Pelado fire has also burned more than 40,000 acres and is forcing evacuations in the area. At the request of public safety, a dedicated FirstNet SatCOLT has been deployed to the remote Incident Command Post to support public safety officials on the fireline in the Jemez Mountains, helping them more efficiently and effectively coordinate and communicate their incident response.

"When public safety officials contacted us about the need for communications assistance near the Calf Canyon-Hermit's Peak and Cerro Pelado fires, we deployed resources immediately," said Fred Scalera, Director, FirstNet Response Operations, AT&T. "These fires are devastating and continue to threaten more communities and homes. It is critical that first responders have reliable connectivity to better serve their communities in times of crisis like this."

Additionally, we’ve distributed FirstNet Ready® devices and hotspots to first responders at Incident Command in Las Vegas as they depart to the frontlines. FirstNet Liaisons are also coordinating with the State Emergency Operations Center and are at the ready to deploy additional assets to the ongoing wildfires.

Only FirstNet has dedicated assets at no additional charge to provide fire, EMS, law enforcement and more with reliable connectivity when and where they need it, including in the immediate aftermath of a wildfire or other disaster when commercial power and other infrastructure may be disrupted. The deployable network assets are designed to keep FirstNet subscribers connected to the information they need, no matter where their mission takes them – allowing first responders to make rescues, communicate and coordinate their emergency response, or aid in recovery, even in the hardest hit areas or most remote parts of the country.