Emergency Responder Radio Communication Systems (ERRCS) are essential for ensuring that first responders can communicate effectively in all areas of a building during emergencies. The prevalence of ERRCS in the United States has been growing over the last five years, driven by an increased recognition of the importance of reliable communication for public safety. By 2024, several factors suggest that ERRCS could become even more prevalent:
- Improved Building Codes and Regulations: As more local and state jurisdictions update their building codes to require ERRCS in new constructions and major renovations, installation of these systems will most likely increase.
- Awareness of Public Safety Needs: Common emergency situations and the ongoing need for robust first responder communication in complex environments continue to highlight the importance of reliable in-building communication. As awareness increases, the adoption of ERRCS also increases.
- Technological Advancements: Advances in technology are making ERRCS more efficient and more affordable. As systems become easier to install and maintain, more buildings will likely adopt them.
- FirstNet Expansion and Integration: As FirstNet, the nationwide public safety broadband network, continues to expand, integration with ERRCS may increase its functionality and appeal.
- Insurance and Liability Concerns: Building owners and operators are increasingly aware of liability issues related to inadequate emergency communications. Insurance incentives or requirements could also support broader implementation.
- Community Pressure and Expectations: As the public becomes more aware of the important role of emergency communications, there may be more community pressure on building owners and local governments to implement these systems.
The actual increase in prevalence will depend on a range of factors, including regulatory changes, market conditions, technological developments, and the general economic climate. While it’s reasonable to expect growth in the adoption of ERRCS in 2024, the pace and extent of this growth will be influenced by these and other drivers.
So which states should see the largest growth in ERRCS’ deployments? There isn’t a publicly available, comprehensive list detailing the exact number of ERRCS installations by state. However, the adoption of ERRCS in different states can be influenced by a number of specific factors, including state and local regulations, urban size and density, and the frequency of new construction projects. Typically, states with large urban populations and strict building codes might have more ERRCS installations. These are states likely to have a higher rate of ERRCS deployments in 2024:
- California: Known for its strict building codes and seismic safety requirements, California also has numerous large cities like Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco, where high-rise buildings and complex structures would necessitate ERRCS.
- New York: With New York City being a densely populated area with numerous high-rise buildings and stringent safety regulations, it’s likely a leader in ERRCS installations. In New York City ERRCS is referred to as ARCS (Auxiliary Radio Communication Systems).
- Texas: Large cities such as Houston, Dallas, and Austin are experiencing rapid growth, with new construction likely needed to include ERRCS, especially in public and high-occupancy buildings.
- Florida: Given its susceptibility to natural disasters and a large number of high-rise buildings in cities like Miami, Florida may also have a significant number of ERRCS installations. It’s the one state with mandated ERRCS systems for certain existing buildings (not just new construction).
- Illinois: Chicago, with its dense urban environment and tall buildings, may see a substantial increase in ERRCS to ensure public safety during an emergency.
The bottom line: for those of us in the ERRCS ecosystem, 2024 should be a good year.
IBWS thanks Google, Bing and ChatGPT for the information contained in this Blog. If you need help navigating the world of ERRCS, please reach out to us for assistance.