A major goal that came out of the attacks on 9/11/2001 was to ensure that all emergency communications systems communicated seamlessly with each other. Communities are working toward ensuring adequate communications systems are set up. However, recently, a $2 billion system failed that was to connect emergency personnel across NY State. The NY State Comptroller, Thomas P. DiNapoli stated with the release of an audit performed by his office, that the state should consider dropping the current contractor.
OHNs should investigate the state of emergency communications systems under which their communities operate and work with local officials to ensure appropriate communications systems are available, especially for their workforces.