North Central Task Force
Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP)
Prepared by:
Cocciardi and Associates, Inc. 330 Montage Mountain Road Moosic, PA 18507
August 30, 2010
“ This document was prepared under a grant from FEMA’s Grant Programs Directorate, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Points of view or opinions expressed in this document are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of FEMA’s Grant Program Directorate or the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 1 of 47 TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION...... 4
1.1 TASK FORCE OVERVIEW:...... 4 1.2 PLANNERS:...... 4 1.3 REGIONAL INTEROPERABLE COMMUNICATIONS PLAN...... 5 1.4 NATIONAL EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS PLAN:...... 5 TABLE 1.1 - NATIONAL EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS PLAN...... 6 2 BACKGROUND AND PRELIMINARY STEPS...... 6
2.1 REGIONAL BOUNDARIES:...... 6 2.2 SCOPE:...... 7 2.3 DEMOGRAPHICS:...... 7 2.4 URBAN AREAS SECURITY INITIATIVE:...... 7 3 CURRENT REGIONAL ASSESSMENT...... 7
3.1 ASSESSMENT OVERVIEW:...... 7 3.2 ASSESSMENT SCOPE:...... 8 3.3 CURRENT INTEROPERABILITY SYSTEMS:...... 8 3.4 STATEWIDE INTEROPERABILITY:...... 9 4 GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE...... 11
4.1 GOVERNANCE OVERVIEW...... 11 4.2 NCTF – EXECUTIVE BOARD (NCTF-EB)...... 11 4.3 COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE...... 11 4.4 REGIONAL INTEROPERABLE COMMUNICATIONS WORKING GROUP (RICWG)...... 12 4.5 PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE COMMUNICATION WORKING GROUP LIAISONS...... 12 4.6 COMMUNICATION VEHICLE/TRAILER WORKING GROUP...... 13 4.7 AUXILIARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES (ACS)...... 13 4.8 RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE AND WORK GROUPS...... 14 4.8.1 NCTF RICP Governing Body Responsibilities...... 14 4.8.2 Meeting Schedule...... 14 4.9 AGENCY RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS...... 14 5 TECHNOLOGY TRANSITION PLAN...... 15
5.1 BASELINE...... 15 5.2 PRIORITIZATION & SHARED USE OF REGIONAL INTEROPERABILITY ASSETS...... 15 5.3 NATIONAL SHARED CHANNELS...... 16 5.3.1 NPSPAC Channels Overview...... 17 5.3.2 NPSPAC Rules of Use...... 17 6 REGIONAL INTEGRATED STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES...... 18
6.1 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES...... 18 6.2 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE DEVELOPMENT...... 18 6.3 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE TRAINING...... 19 6.4 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE ACCESS...... 19 7 TRAINING AND EXERCISES...... 19
7.1 OVERVIEW...... 19 7.2 TRAINING: THE COMMUNICATIONS UNIT AND COMMUNICATIONS UNIT LEADER:...... 20 7.3 TRAINING AND EXERCISE MODEL...... 20 8 SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS...... 21
8.1 SUMMARY OF PLAN...... 21 8.2 RECOMMENDATIONS...... 22
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 2 of 47 LIST OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: INTEROPERABILITY MATRIX...... 25
APPENDIX B: PUBLIC SAFETY INTEROPERABLE COMMUNICATIONS (PSIC) COVERAGE MAP...... 31
APPENDIX C: CURRENT COVERAGE MAP...... 33
APPENDIX D: MEMBERS OF THE NCTF-EB...... 36
APPENDIX E: ICS-205...... 38
APPENDIX F: DHS SHARED CHANNELS...... 42
APPENDIX G: ACRONYMS...... 43
APPENDIX H: STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE TEMPLATES...... 45
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 3 of 47 A Call to Action: “Preparedness is the responsibility of every level of government, every department, and every agency consistent with its authorities. This includes coordinating preparedness activities among partners operating within their jurisdictional borders, as well as across jurisdictional and geographic borders when dictated by identified threats and risk assessments.”1
1 Introduction
1.1 Task Force Overview:
The North Central Task Force (NCTF) is geographically located in the north central region of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The NCTF, one of nine regional task forces in the state is comprised of seven (x7) counties. These counties are Bradford, Clinton, Lycoming, Potter, Sullivan, Tioga and Union.
Figure 1: Pennsylvania Regional Counter Terrorism Task Force Map
1.2 Planners:
Regional Plan Point of Contact: Mr. John Hetrick Chair, NCTF Communications Committee Potter County Emergency Management Agency 20 Mockingbird Lane Coudersport, PA 16915
Consultant Point of Contact: Mr. Rocco DiPietro, CSP Senior Professional Cocciardi and Associates, Inc. 330 Montage Mountain Road Moosic, PA 18507
1 National Preparedness Guidelines, September 2007; www.dhs.gov. North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 4 of 47 1.3 Regional Interoperable Communications Plan
This Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) is designed to both assess the current posture of the NCTF with respect to their ability to operate and maintain interoperable communications between public safety agencies and organizations, and to provide recommendations to improve the current program(s). The objective of the plan is to address criteria identified in current DHS guidance2, defined as critical to improving communications. Specifically, two key priority focus areas were included: Priority Group #1 – Leadership and Governance, and Priority Group #2 – Common Planning and Operational Protocols, and Emergency Responder Skills and Capabilities.
Utilizing the Interoperability Continuum, effective interoperable emergency communications can not be achieved solely through technological means. This plan addresses procedural and administrative components of interoperability, as well as current and transitional technology needs.
This plan, and subsequent supporting documents, is the culmination of months of data collection, key personnel interviews, stakeholders’ meetings, and analytical research. A summary of the plan development process and data collection activities (including meeting dates) is included as a matrix by county in Appendix A. Upon implementation, this plan will provide forward movement along the Interoperability Continuum, while ensuring an approach consistent with federal and state plans and guidance.
1.4 National Emergency Communications Plan:
Recognizing the need for an overarching emergency communications strategy to address interoperable emergency communications, Congress directed the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Office of Emergency Communications (OEC) to develop the first National Emergency Communications Plan (NECP). Title XVIII of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 United States Code 101 et seq.), as amended, calls for the NECP to be developed in coordination with stakeholders from all levels of government and from the private sector.
In response, DHS worked with stakeholders from federal, state, local, and tribal agencies to develop the NECP – a strategic plan that establishes a national vision for the future state of emergency communications. The desired future state is that emergency responders can communicate: as needed, on demand, and as authorized at all levels of government across all disciplines.
To measure progress toward this vision, three strategic goals were established (see Table 1.1 below).
TABLE 1.1 - NATIONAL EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS PLAN
2 U.S. DHS IECGP, Guidance and Application Kit, June 2008. North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 5 of 47 (NECP) Strategic Goals
By 2010, 90 percent of all high-risk urban areas designated within the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) are able to Goal 1 demonstrate response-level emergency communications within one hour for routine events involving multiple jurisdictions and agencies.
By 2011, 75 percent of non-UASI jurisdictions are able to Goal 2 demonstrate response-level emergency communications within one hour for routine events involving multiple jurisdictions and agencies.
By 2013, 75 percent of all jurisdictions are able to Goal 3 demonstrate response-level emergency communications within three hours in the event of a significant incident, as outlined in national planning scenarios.
2 Background and Preliminary Steps
2.1 Regional Boundaries:
The NCTF was created pursuant to Pennsylvania Counter Terrorism Planning, Preparedness and Response Act of December 16, 2002 (PL.1967, No. 227-35). Act 227 defined NCTF as the seven counties of Bradford, Clinton, Lycoming, Potter, Sullivan, Tioga, and Union and all municipalities existing in Pennsylvania within the geographic area bound by these counties.
Figure 2: Map of North Central Task Force Region
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 6 of 47 2.2 Scope:
The NCTF Communications Committee provides the administrative support for regional communications planning and equipment response.
As the primary point of contact for this plan, the NCTF Communications Committee will act as the Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to vet the plan and its contents to ultimate acceptance and adoption by the NCTF governing body.
2.3 Demographics:
The 2009 estimated population of the NCTF was 322,0573, or approximately 2.5% of the state’s population. The land mass of the NCTF covers an estimated 6,259 square miles, or approximately 14% of the state’s land mass.
2.4 Urban Areas Security Initiative:
UASIs: There are no Urban Areas Security Initiatives (UASIs) within the Region.
3 Current Regional Assessment
“ Communications is the fundamental capability within disciplines and jurisdictions that practitioners need to perform the most routine and basic elements of their job functions. Agencies must be operable, meaning they must have sufficient wireless communications to meet their everyday internal and emergency communication requirements before they place value on being interoperable, i.e., able to work with other agencies.”4
3.1 Assessment Overview:
The NCTF has initiated a number of measures to enhance interoperability throughout the NCTF Region. These measures have included the dedication of funding to support the purchase of a mobile communication vehicle and a communication trailer equipped to support “on-scene” communication efforts during incidents or planned events. To aid in interoperability measures, the Region has purchased and distributed gateway devices that allow for connecting disparate radio communication devices for the purpose of creating an interoperable communication system. Cellular air cards have been purchased and provided to each NCTF County as a redundant communication measure, should other defined communication system failures occur within the NCTF Region.
An assessment of the NCTF Region communications systems and policies has been completed. All agencies recognize interoperability and are working toward interoperable capabilities.
3 U.S. Census Bureau, Quick Facts; retrieved from http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/42000.html 4 Target Capabilities List, September 2007, www.dhs.gov.
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 7 of 47 Interoperability is the combination of governance, standard operating procedures, technology, training, and usage. The Region has shown strides to fulfill these requirements.
All counties have installed equipment, or will be installing equipment this grant year, to address agency interoperability within their perspective county, region, and state connectivity.
All counties lack the written polices or governance that would guide agency usage.
3.2 Assessment Scope:
The NCTF has identified all agencies and their communications capabilities within the Region. This plan is not for any specific county but for the NCTF Region. Each county within the region has been identified without communications governance in place at each level of government. Informal coordination between agencies is in place with limited multi-discipline permissions or procedures.
3.3 Current Interoperability Systems:
The NCTF is in the process of completing the installation of a regional calling system using the “Call” channels, identified as “Shared Channels” by the Department of Homeland Security.
The system will include a “VCALL” channel base station in each county that will be monitored by their Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP).
The “VCALL” base station will be linked with the “UCALL” channel at each tower site. The “PA Star” state radio system has established a link between their system and the “UCALL” shared radio channel.
Also established are permanent links between “PA Star” and the National Emergency Frequency (formally the National Police Channel) (155.475).
With the new equipment and established state links, NCTF will have interoperability across the three, highest-used bandwidths in today’s two-way radio communications.
The current Public Safety Interoperable Communications (PSIC) coverage propagation map for NCTF, as well as the National Response Frequencies coverage across Pennsylvania (May 2007) is included in Appendix B.
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 8 of 47 North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 9 of 47 NCTF Interoperability System
“VCALL10” “UCALL40D” 155.7525 MHz. 156.7 453.2125 MHz. Tx. PL 156.7 Tx. PL All NCTF PSAPs DHS Shared Channel All NCTF EMAs
“PA STAR” State Radio System 800 MHz. Network
All State Agencies
Note System completionFigure 3: date NCTF is July Technology 2010 Interoperability Chart
3.4 Statewide Interoperability:
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has constructed a comprehensive methodology that encompasses inputs from local, state, and federal public safety agencies. These agencies have communicated their inputs through surveys, the annual commonwealth interoperability summit, Regional Counter-Terrorism Task Force meetings (RCTFs), and other state and local meetings in which interoperable communications were discussed. Consistent with federal grant guidelines5 and the Statewide Communication Interoperable Plan6, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has established a structured program known as the PA Statewide Radio Network (PA-STARNet). This network serves as a backbone for interoperable communication. Since the Office of Public Safety Radio Services (OPRS), under the Office of Administration (OA) for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is responsible for the design, development, and installation of PA-STARNet, completion of this project is critical to interoperable communication across the state and NCTF Region. Current coverage maps included in Appendix C are:
Operational Coverage Operational and Design Coverage Interoperability and Interference Mitigation
5U.S. DHS, Fiscal year 2008, Interoperable Emergency Communication Grant Program, Guidance and Application Kit, June 2008. 6 Commonwealth of PA, Statewide Communication Interoperable Plan, March 12, 2008, Version 1.1. North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 10 of 47 Operational coverage is the coverage provided by the network with system resources deployed and operating as of the date specified.
Operational and design coverage is the coverage expected when system resources, actually deployed and operating, are augmented by resources scheduled for near-term deployment.
Interoperability and Interference Mitigation maps portray progress with connection of county and local public safety and emergency response agencies with PA-STARNet, and progress with identification and mitigation of RF transmission sources that interfere with operation of PA-STARNet.
Interoperable Communications Progress by County. County Interoperability is the connection of county public safety radio systems to PA-STARNet through a central point such as a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP), or 911 Center. The commonwealth supports four specific methods of connection, each characterized by a tradeoff between cost and level of function provided:
Standalone Control Station: Fixed-location RF-based subscriber unit for communication using PA STARNet
Integrated Control Station: Fixed-location RF-based PA-STARNet subscriber unit integrated with local radio systems through connection to a dispatch console
NetworkFirst Gateway: Interconnection of PA-STARNet and local radio systems using Harris Corporation NetworkFirst gateway technology for translation of signals between the interconnected systems
Internetworking: Interconnection of PA-STARNet and local radio systems preserving full system function, possible only when the connected systems use the same Harris Corporation OpenSky technology that PA-STARNet uses
Mobile Connectivity: NCTF has installed PA StarNet mobile radios, with repeaters, in the region’s prime movers and specialty response units. Portable radios complete this system of voice connectivity.
Interoperable connections allow intercommunication among responders from different public safety disciplines, affiliated with different levels of government, using different radio communications technologies and portions of the frequency spectrum. It is a strategic objective of the commonwealth to connect all counties at the highest level of function consistent with public safety operational requirements, county and local plans, and the level of funding available for implementation and deployment.
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 11 of 47 4 Governance Structure
Informal Coordination between Agencies
4.1 Governance Overview
The development, maintenance, and implementation of this plan is the responsibility of the NCTF Communications Committee, with oversight from the NCTF Executive Board.
The leadership of the NCTF is working in partnership with non-profit organizations and private sector interests to reduce the vulnerability of the NCTF Region and to employ mitigation measures in regard to interoperable communication to support “All-Hazard” incident response.
These partners have established a governance structure to guide homeland security and “All-Hazards” emergency management planning, training, and exercise in the NCTF region in accordance with NCTF Vision and Mission Statements. The following organizational components of the NCTF provide for the direct oversight and implementation of the NCTF Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP).
4.2 NCTF – Executive Board (NCTF-EB)
The County Emergency Management Agency Coordinators established a NCTF Executive Board (NCTF –EB) to provide continuing policy and executive level focus to the region’s homeland security and All-Hazards emergency management concerns. The ECTF-EB was also designed to ensure full integration of NCTF activities, with statewide efforts, in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Its membership was, and is, comprised of Emergency Management Coordinators and/or senior officials of the seven counties (Bradford, Clinton, Lycoming, Potter, Sullivan, Tioga, and Union), each with direct reporting to the principals. The NCTF-EB was given the collective mandate to determine priority actions for NCTF easing regional preparedness and response capabilities and reducing vulnerability to terrorist attacks.
This group provides the overall direction for implementation within the NCTF. Any regional Memorandums of Understanding or Mutual Aid Agreements will be implemented at this level.
The members of the NCTF-EB are listed in Appendix D.
4.3 Communications Committee
NCTF Communications Committee’s focus of region-wide connectivity through voice and data continues to expand, meeting today’s interoperability needs. The Committee provides technical details and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to their respective liaison. On a monthly basis, the committee will meet jointly to address cross-function communication needs. As such, it was determined that the Communication Committee is the logical place to assign the creation and maintenance of the NCTF RICP.
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 12 of 47 The proposed overall organizational structure for the NCTF-RICP is shown in Figure 4. It defines the organization necessary for effective / efficient flow of information for communication input purposes. Note, the organizational chart, while primarily for pre- incident or pre-event planning, may aid in communicating how incident communications needs/wants can be captured within a specific public safety disciplines’ branch, division, group, etc.
A Communications Vehicle/Trailer Workgroup should be established beneath the NCTF Communication Committee for the purpose of identifying/recommending to the NCTF Communications Committee field communication purchases, training, procedures, etc. An Auxiliary Communications Services Workgroup should be established beneath the NCTF Communication Committee for the purpose of identifying/recommending to the NCTF Communications Committee console and field communication purchases, training, procedures, etc.
4.4 Regional Interoperable Communications Working Group (RICWG)
This group should be established by the NCTF Executive Board to serve as a working group under the direction for the NCTF Communication Committee, and to provide oversight in the development of regionally implemented voice and data technologies and infrastructure projects, regardless of funding source, to support events and incidents within NCTF Region.
The RICWG would provide recommendations to the NCTF Communications Committee and NCTF-EB for regional implementation of voice and data interoperability at an infrastructure and information sharing level. The group could also provide support to the other NCTF Public Safety Committees (e.g. Law Enforcement, Fire/Rescue/HAZMAT, Health and Medical, etc.) so that all views are represented in the NCTF RICP.
Should it be determined that the Regional Interoperability Communications elements described in this plan are core to the entire Communications Committee, this working group need not be specifically broken out. If the NCTF leadership incorporates regional interoperable communications responsibilities, as part of the mission of the committee, tangible documentation and formal acknowledgement of these duties and responsibilities should be both transparent and measurable.
4.5 Public Safety Committee Communication Working Group Liaisons
Public Safety Committee Working Group Liaisons, representing the various public safety functions, should serve on the NCTF Communication Committee for the purpose of providing discipline specific insight to the development and maintenance of the NCTF RICP including Law Enforcement, Fire/Rescue/HAZMAT, and Health and Medical (EMS/Hospitals).
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 13 of 47 4.6 Communication Vehicle/Trailer Working Group
Communication Vehicle/Trailer Working Group should consist of personnel representing an agency or organization possessing a Communication Vehicle or Communication Trailer for which funding and/or equipment support is provided by NCTF. The purpose of this working group is to define “best practices” for deploying and utilizing the NCTF Regions Communication Vehicle or Communication Trailer to support incidents and planned events where there is need for said apparatus and equipment to aid in establishing interoperable communications, as well as potentially provide mobile “office suites” to house the functions associated with Command and General Staff organizational elements.
4.7 Auxiliary Communication Services (ACS)
Consistent with the PEMA Auxiliary Communication Services (ACS) Strategic Plan7, Auxiliary Communications Working Group consists of Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) or Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services (RACES) organizational members who are trained and equipped to provide amateur radio services in the NCTF Region to support and expand interoperable communication efforts within the NCTF Region.
Organizational Chart
Figure 4: NCTF Governance Organizational Chart
7 Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, Pennsylvania Auxiliary Communication Services, ACS Strategic Plan, July 19, 2010. North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 14 of 47 4.8 Responsibilities of Communications Committee and Work Groups
4.8.1 NCTF RICP Governing Body Responsibilities
The NCTF Communications Committees, with coordination from the NCTF Leadership, will oversee the following responsibilities:
Establishing and managing interoperable communications working groups
Maintaining and updating this RICP
Adopting final solutions and directing implementation
Establishing training recommendations in support of this RICP
Creating chains of command for interoperable communications including trained Communications Unit Leaders, Communication Technicians, Radio Operators and other needed communications positions
Executing Memoranda of Understanding and Sharing Agreements for interoperable communications
Notifying agencies of regular interoperable equipment/solutions, testing and assisting agencies with test evaluation and the dissemination of results
Continual re-evaluation of regional requirements as technology evolves and circumstances dictate
4.8.2 Meeting Schedule
The NCTF Communications Committee meets monthly, with a biannual review of policies and procedures.
4.9 Agency Responsibilities and Rights
The rights and responsibilities of individual agencies include:
Agencies agreeing to this plan have the authority to request use of systems. Dispatch agencies and emergency communications centers of participating agencies have the authorization to request use of the systems.
Where applicable, agencies will be responsible for maintaining, testing, and exercising connectivity to interoperable communications systems.
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 15 of 47 Agencies retain the right to decide when and where to participate in interoperable communications. For example, agencies will retain the right to accept or decline a patch to a gateway system to provide interoperable communications during an incident.
5 Technology Transition Plan
5.1 Baseline
Technology is highly dependent upon existing infrastructure within the region. Multiple technology solutions are required in many situations. Technologies used throughout the NCTF include exchanging of radios, shared channels, and gateways.
Exchanging radio, or monitoring a cache of standby radios, is a legacy solution that is time- consuming, management intensive and may only provide limited results due to channel availability. Interoperability is promoted when agencies share a common frequency band and are able to agree (via governance) on common channels.
NCTF region benefits from the high percentage of common band spread usage (VHF – 150MHz.) and its advanced foresight of communications technology. Having most public safety responders with common capabilities adds to successful, large-scale disaster communications. The build-out of the Public Safety Interoperability Communications (PSIC) grant will only enhance the current technology. The installation of the federal V-Call channel across all disciplines throughout the region will provide the infrastructure required for voice interoperability over National Shared Channels.
5.2 Prioritization & Shared Use of Regional Interoperability Assets In response to events or incidents which cross over political jurisdictions, there will potentially be competing demands and priorities for interoperable communications assets.
Until such time as Incident Command is established, the lead agency designee (i.e., communications supervisor/command personnel), in cooperation with assisting agencies, will have the authority to designate the use of interoperable assets. Once Incident Command has been established, Command Staff or Communication Unit Leaders (when designated) direct the further coordination and delegation of the interoperable communications assets assigned to the event or incident in question.
Agencies should judiciously activate needed interoperable assets so as to both effectively respond to the event and /or incident and also minimize any negative impact on surrounding agencies or jurisdictions. Specifically, interoperable communications should be attempted with the following order of operations in mind (subject to variability based on the agencies involved and the nature of the event/incident):
1. Leverage face-to-face communications wherever appropriate. For example, the co-location of all Command and General Staff at the Incident Command Post (ICP) provides the best direct communications and reduces the demand on interoperability resources.
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 16 of 47 2. Employ local communications assets until such time as either those assets become taxed or inadequate based on the nature and/or scope of the incident.
3. If response agencies are users of a shared system, utilize that shared system to establish interoperable communications.
4. If response agencies operate on disparate systems, utilize shared or mutual aid cannels to establish interoperable communications.
5. If response agencies do not share systems or channels, utilize a gateway solution to establish interoperable communications.
6. Where interoperable communications cannot otherwise be established between response agencies, utilize swap or cache radios to establish operable communications for responders.
7. If no other method interoperability can be established, relay communications through staff members.
When the same resources are requested for two or more incidents, resource assignments should be based on the priority levels listed below:
1. Disasters, large scale incidents, or extreme emergencies requiring mutual aid or interagency communications.
2. Incidents where imminent danger exists to life or property.
3. Incidents requiring the response of multiple agencies.
4. Incidents involving a single agency where supplemental communications are needed for agency use.
5. Pre-planned events requiring mutual aid or interagency communications.
6. Drills, tests, and exercises.
In the event of multiple simultaneous incidents within the same priority level, the resources should be allocated with the following priorities in mind:
1. Incidents with the greatest level of exigency (e.g., greater threat to life or property, more immediate need, etc.) have priority over less exigent incidents.
2. Agencies with single/limited interoperable options have priority use of those options over agencies with multiple interoperable options.
3. When at all possible, agencies already using in interoperable asset during an event should not be redirected to another resource.
5.3 National Shared Channels
“Shared channels” refer to common frequencies or channels (such as those of a participating agency) that have been established and are programmed into radios to provide interoperable communications among agencies. Shared channels and North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 17 of 47 shared systems are the preferred types of interoperable communications equipment due to their availability, and because they are included and operational in each piece of equipment.
An ICS-205 (Incident Radio Communications Plan) has been developed for NCTF’s VHF frequency channels. Refer to Appendix E for the populated ICS-205 and an Interoperable Communications Quick Reference Guide.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee (NPSPAC) channels nationwide (see Appendix F) to be available for mutual aid operations by any public safety agencies, including federal agencies participating in the operations. The channels include those to serve as a “Calling Channel” to be used for coordination requests for service. The remaining channels are designated for “tactical” use between agencies participating in mutual aid operations.
Federal agencies also have access to a number of frequencies set aside for their mutual-aid communications. Among these channels are DHS Common, formerly known as Treasury Common, and the narrowband frequencies established by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). NTIA assigns frequencies and issues licenses for federal agencies in a manner similar to the licensing processes that state and local public safety agencies use to gain authorization to use radio spectrum for wireless communications.
5.3.1 NPSPAC Channels Overview
The nationwide channels are reserved exclusively for public safety agencies who use 800 MHz radio. These channels allow public safety first responders to achieve instant interoperability across the country. The NPSPAC channels allow first responders, using 800 MHz radios, to deploy to an area where there is an 800 MHz system and switch to the NPSPAC mutual aid channel and achieve instant interoperability with first responders using this frequency range. During national mutual aid situations, NPSPAC channels allow first responders to deploy to other metropolitan areas and by using the NPSPAC channels, they can use their own radios to communicate.
PA-STARNet portable radios are capable of “off system” communications utilizing the NPSPAC channels.
5.3.2 NPSPAC Rules of Use
The Interoperability Channels in the region will be reserved for inter-communication in situations requiring the coordination of multiple public safety entities. They shall not be used for administrative or intra-agency communications unless so directed during a major emergency disaster situation.
The field unit notifies the PSAP for assignments of a NPSPAC channel. Each National Communication PSAP should know where the local mutual Aid TAC base North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 18 of 47 stations are within their jurisdictional responsibilities and what area(s) they cover. This will become most important if a second mutual aid incident arises. Coordination between dispatchers to select the right TAC channel is vital to each specific incident.
An exception to repeater use will be when two or more field units are in close proximity of each other; this allows mutual aid Direct (or talk-around) communications.
Due to maritime regulations, NPSPAC repeaters are restricted to inland usage only. There are none in the NCTF Region.
Examples of Proper Use of the Interoperability Channels: As working channels for multiple fire departments fighting a fire together. For coordination during a police chase though multiple jurisdictions where the agencies have no other communications link with each other. For communications during extended joint operations between multiple police agencies such as drug operations, riots, etc. For coordination during recovery operations after a disaster, such as a hurricane, when local, state, and federal agencies require a common communications link.
Examples of Improper Use of the Interoperability Channels: To support the administrative functions of a fire department which has a mutual aid agreement with an adjacent fire department to provide “move up” capability when a fire unit leaves its own coverage area. To provide an extra working channel for a public safety agency supporting a special event. To provide a surveillance channel for use between members of the same public safety agency.
6 Regional Integrated Standard Operating Procedures
6.1 Standard Operating Procedures
As a result of overall lack of regional governance, there is an omission of any Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for universal emergency interoperable communication equipment and technology.
It is required that all members of the emergency response community have access to standards, protocols, and procedures between agencies, jurisdictions and disciplines in the NCTF. The SOPs would guide interaction between organizations and provide for greater cooperation among responders
A minimum of these SOPs are recommended for the initial implementation, these include: Mobile Gateway Patch SOP Shared Channel SOP Radio Cache SOP Templates for each SOP are included in Appendix H.
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 19 of 47 6.2 Standard Operating Procedure Development
To develop regional-specified SOPs, it is recommended that the Task Force identify a multi-jurisdictional, multi-disciplinary team of first responders (field personnel) and command/management staff. This team may eventually become a working group under the oversight of the Communications Committee; however, caution should be exercised to avoid development of these SOPs within a communications or information technology-centric group. First Responders, and those with practical logistics and grants management experience, will provide for the most comprehensive and implementational set of SOPs.
Consideration must be given in the SOP development process to avoidance or minimization of conflicting SOPs or conflicts with other regional, state-level plans. As SOPs are developed, public safety Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) should include in the development the following topics, scope, and tone:
Scope and coverage NIMS compliance SOP approval process Frequency of use Training requirement Maintenance and sustainment
6.3 Standard Operating Procedure Training
As SOPs are developed in context above (6.1 - 6.2), training requirements should be identified. Minimally, the SOP should identify who will be responsible to be trained in the SOP (primary and secondary). Additional items noted as necessary include: appropriately identified resources and reference materials, training material (equipment/props), contact information for trainers and training coordinators.
6.4 Standard Operating Procedure Access
Upon approval by designated authority (in accordance with governance documents), SOPs should be made widely available to all users (responders and command staff). This access will need to be granted in a controlled manner and credentials vetted in a consistent methodology. It is conceivable that appropriate SOP access can be granted through county-level as first responders are credentialed into their service (EMS Council, Department Chief, etc.)
7 Training and Exercises
7.1 Overview
Training and exercises are fundamental to forward movement on the interoperability continuum. Provision to provide instructional support designed to develop skills, knowledge, and improve performance of first responders is essential to building this capability.
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 20 of 47 The Region is at the early stages of development of this training initiative, as only during the past two to three years has any extensive training efforts in the interoperability communication area been performed. Current roadblocks to conducting such comprehensive training include: personnel turnover, a lack of available and competent staff to provide training, the wide geographic distribution of responders and command staff, and the rapid evolution of technology solutions.
As the goal of training and exercises is to be sure the public safety community can perform their jobs effectively, regular training and exercises must be continuous and integrated into all facets of the public safety program.
A critical gap identified in the Region is the lack of formal training in a ICS/NIMS structure for committees. A goal to assist in this process is the standard curriculum provided for in the communications unit of ICS.
7.2 Training: The Communications Unit and Communications Unit Leader:
As established under ICS, communications and incident action plans will be integrated to capture management goals and operational objectives. Integration of supporting services and technologies is critical to effective incident responses. Since responder safety and effectiveness are closely related to how well communications supports them, the capabilities and capacity of systems to support operations will be continuously taken into account during incident action planning.
Communications should be integrated into ICS-based management systems used by the Task Force through the early establishment of a communications unit during incidents, and by involvement of the communications unit leader in incident action planning. This is not only to ensure that the response is well supported by communications, but also to reinforce chosen command structures and operating principles generally embodied in ICS, such as management span of control.
The Communication Unit is situated in the Logistics Section. It is managed by a unit leader, communication center managers, dispatchers (radio operators), and communications technicians serving the incident will also be part of the unit, as needed.
The Communications Unit Leader (abbreviated as COML within the NIMS) has the responsibility to assign resources; including radio channels/talk groups and equipment during an actual event, based on the circumstances, agencies involved, and available resources. The Communications Unit Leader must be part of the planning process and determine the communications resource required to support the objectives and tactics of the Incident Action Plan, as it develops.
Communications resources across a region (and even state/nationally) should be coordinated among various, potentially simultaneous, incidents by a Communications Coordinator (abbreviated as COMC within the NIMS).
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 21 of 47 7.3 Training and Exercise Model
Consistent with the consortium, NCTF should continue to migrate towards a more robust training and exercise posture with respect to interoperability. As the Task Force progresses along this element, a roadmap of these escalating models is provided below:
General Orientation on Equipment - Agencies provide initial orientation to their users with regard to their own particular equipment. Multi- jurisdiction/multi-agency operations are often an afterthought to this training, if provided at all.
Single Agency Tabletop for Key Field and Support Staff - Structured tabletop exercises promote planning and identify response gaps; however, single agency activities do not promote interoperability across disciplines and jurisdictions. Additionally, management and supervisory training is critical to promoting routine use of interoperability mechanisms.
Multi-agency Tabletop for Key Field and Support Staff - As agencies and disciplines begin working together to develop exercises and provide field training, workable interoperability solutions emerge.
Multi-agency Full Functional Exercises Involving All Staff – Once multiagency/multi-discipline plans are developed and practiced at the management and supervisory level, it is then critical that all staff who will eventually be involved in actual implementation receive training and participate in exercises.
Regular Comprehensive Regional Training and Exercises - Optimal interoperability involves equipment familiarization and an introduction to regional/state interoperability at the time of hire (e.g., in an academy setting). Agency-specific education on local/regional interoperability is provided during initial agency orientation/training programs. Appropriate levels of training for interoperability and use of ICS/NIMS are provided during supervisory and management training as employees advance in rank. Success will be assured by regular, comprehensive, and realistic exercises that address potential problems in the region and involve the participation of all personnel.
Note: Current assessment of NCTF includes completion of activities under General Orientation up to Multi-agency Tabletop for Key Staff (Wide Broadcast 2010). Regional “Train the Trainer” on the NCTF communications equipment and systems has been completed. This information needs to be distributed throughout the region to the end-users (field staff). Additional training is proposed with the rollout of the PSIC “Vcall” equipment installation.
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 22 of 47 8 Summary and Recommendations
8.1 Summary of Plan
All levels of government recognize that communication interoperability among public safety agencies is a critical element in emergency response. In recognition of this need, and their respective responsibilities for public safety and emergency preparedness in the Region, the NCTF commissioned this plan to document current posture and identify future planning opportunities.
The concept of interoperable communications at the region-level is described by federal agencies in the Interoperability Continuum. This document, and its supporting documents, is designed to help the public safety community and policy makers address critical elements for success as they plan and implement solutions. These elements include governance, SOPs, technology, training and exercises, and usage of interoperable communications solutions.
The current assessment of the NCTF’s posture on the continuum is shown in the following Figure 5.
Figure 5: NCTF Continuum Assessment
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 23 of 47 8.2 Recommendations
While progress across all elements of the continuum are expected and anticipated, select challenges and roadblocks were identified in NCTF as unique. To overcome those challenges, the following recommendations are identified. These recommendations and this Region Plan should serve as a roadmap to future activities and investments in the NCTF.
8.2.1 Utilizing the existing Task Force governance structure, the NCTF, specifically the Communications Committee, should develop a governing body to establish a clear mission and coordination of all subsequent actions in the interoperable communications area. A work group within the Communications Committee consisting of multi-jurisdictional, multi-disciplinary, multi-authority personnel would accomplish this goal.
8.2.2 The Task Force should develop and adopt a universal set of SOPs for use with communications equipment and activities. Three SOP templates have been provided for an initial adoption. Once developed and adopted, wide-spread access to these SOPs will form a more consistent implementation and utilization of technology.
8.2.3 Recognizing that technological solutions to interoperability require great amounts of time and investment, utilization of existing equipment and technology is a primary recommendation. This existing technology/equipment leverages the existence of a large propagation of high-band VHF radio systems across the Task Force Region. Through the use of shared channels on existing systems, a greater degree of interoperability can be achieved with minimal additional technological investments.
Additionally, to further eliminate gaps in coverage or interferences between systems, the Task Force should fully implement the permanent NPSPAC interoperability gateway (PSIC Grant) VHF overlay (Vcall) with connectivity to the UHF (Ucall) and 800 MHz “PA-STARNet” system. This initiative will allow for increased coverage in the NCTF Region and its risk assessment identified targets.
Lastly, by further developing the training and awareness of existing equipment (e.g. gateway solutions), forward movement on the continuum can be achieved without substantial investments or funding.
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 24 of 47 8.2.4 In order to full utilize existing technology and equipment, as well as provide a more systematic orientation of new personnel, a training and education plan (specific to interoperable communications) should be established. Such a plan would integrate with the annual PEMA requirements for a Training, Education, and Exercise Plan (TEEP). Levels of training recommended include initial equipment briefings and orientation up to ICS Communication Unit and Unit Leader training for first responders during an emergency.
8.2.5 In concert with 8.2.4 above, in addition to training initiatives, the Task Force’s ability to demonstrate this capability would be accomplished by a furtherance of HSEEP8-compliant exercises. Building on the first of its kind in the Region, “Wide Broadcast 2010 TTX” is a perfect opportunity. Additional exercises needed by counties should not be limited to only communications staff, but rather include a variety of responders and command staff.
8.2.6 Communications interoperability is an ongoing process, not a one-time investment. It is recommended that the NCTF leadership supplement this RICP with a Sustainment, Testing, Upgrade, and Maintenance Plan (STUMP) to ensure ongoing efforts to move the program along the continuum do not slide or revert back to lower levels of interoperability. Long-term equipment purchases and replacement projects may be included in this plan. Such a plan would make certain that responders, expected to utilize these systems on a regular and frequent basis, have the certainty of operation necessary to carry out their public safety responsibilities.
8 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Exercise Evaluation Protocol February 2007, www.hseep.dhs.gov North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 25 of 47 APPENDIX A: Interoperability Matrix
Date January 26th, 2010 January 28th, 2010 February 2nd, 2010 County Clinton County Tioga County Union County Location Emergency Services Office Emergency Services Office Government Center Attendees Kevin Fanning - Director David Cohick - Director Michelle Troup - EMC Jim Watson John Hetrick - Potter County Director Lisa James - 911 Cord Interoperability Continuum Governance County PSAP Yes Yes Yes Fire Board Yes Yes Yes LEO Board Yes No No MOUs No No Yes - Old, Not NIMS compliant
Standard Operating Procedures 911 Center Yes Yes Yes - Not Current Field Users Manual No - 911 center covers both No No -Same as dispatch Special Events Yes - Trisect Race Yes - Fall Festival No
Technology Fire Dispatch VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. UHF - 450 Mhz. Dispatch only VHF - Low Band Dispatch - 46 Fire Tacs VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. Mhz. Leo Dispatch VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. Leo Tacs VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. EMS Dispatch VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. UHF - 450 Mhz. Dispatch only EMS Tacs VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. UHF - 450 MHz. Hospital Reports UHF - 450 MHz. UHF - 450 MHz. UHF - 450 MHz. Inter Hospital PA Star - 800 MHz. PA Star - 800 MHz. PA Star - 800 MHz. Local Gov VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - Low Band Dispatch - 46 Mhz. VHF - 150 MHz. PSP VHF - 150 Mhz. (80% of county) VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. Forestry VHF - 150 Mhz. VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - Low Band Dispatch - 46 VHF - Low Band Dispatch - 46 Game Comm. MHz VHF - Low Band Dispatch - 46 MHz MHz (VHF - 150 Mhz. in Cars) (VHF - 150 Mhz. in Cars) (VHF - 150 Mhz. in Cars) Interop Channel Yes - VHF 150 Mhz. Yes - VHF 150 Mhz. VHF - P3 in all high band profiles
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 26 of 47 County Clinton County Tioga County Union County MDT No Mobile Data No Mobile Data No Mobile Data Gateway ACU-M VHF&UHF ACU-M VHF&UHF ACU-M VHF&UHF ISRI - VHF 150 / VHF 46 / UHF 450 All LEO Ports and some Programming Kenwood
Training and Exercises At County Meetings Yes Yes Yes EMT Class Yes Yes Yes Fire Basic Class Yes Yes Yes County Offered Class Yes Yes No Ride along LEO and PSAP Leo and PSAP Leo and PSAP Hospital MCI Drills Yes Yes
Usage PEMA Weather Exercise Yes Yes No Berwick Rad Drills No No Yes Planned Events Tri Mega Race Fall Festival LLWS Decon Drill 4th of July Event
Other LHPD and LHU full time LEO DCNR all have police 1 for Interop Currently specifying new system Full Interop plan w/Narrowband No National or Regional into PSAP Full Interop plan & equip for spring LEO - 80% PSP build Data ch. FCC waiting to build out -AVL Radio bridge at PSP
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 27 of 47 Date March 23, 2010 November 12, 2009 November 13, 2009 County Lycoming County Sullivan County Potter County Location Lycoming DPS Sullivan DPS John Hetrick - EMC Attendees Connie Turner - 911 Cord Kim Barto -911 Cord Sandy Holdren - 911 Training Interoperability Continuum Dan Strouse - 911 Governance County PSAP Yes Yes - Dual Lycoming Primary Yes - Tioga Primary Fire Board Yes Yes Yes LEO Board Yes None ? MOUs Some ? No
Standard Operating Procedures 911 Center Yes ? Under Development Field Users Manual Yes Yes ? Special Events Yes - Little League World Series No No 4th of July Event
Technology Fire Dispatch VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. Fire Tacs VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. Leo Dispatch VHF - 150 MHz. ? VHF - 150 MHz. Leo Tacs VHF - 150 MHz. ? VHF - 150 MHz. EMS Dispatch VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. EMS Tacs VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. Hospital Reports UHF - 450 MHz. UHF - 450 MHz. UHF - 450 MHz. Inter Hospital PA Star - 800 MHz. PA Star - 800 MHz. PA Star - 800 MHz. Local Gov VHF - 150 MHz. UHF - 450 Mhz. VHF - 150 MHz. PSP VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. Forestry VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - 150 MHz. VHF - Low Band Dispatch - 46 VHF - Low Band Dispatch - 46 VHF - Low Band Dispatch - 46 Game Comm. MHz MHz MHz (VHF - 150 Mhz. in Cars) (VHF - 150 Mhz. in Cars) (VHF - 150 Mhz. in Cars) Numerous Tac Channels Interop Channel Yes - VHF 150 Mhz. Available VHF - 150 MHz. MDT Some Air Cards No Mobile Data No Mobile Data Gateway ACU-M VHF&UHF ACU-M VHF&UHF ACU-M VHF&UHF
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 28 of 47 County Lycoming County Sullivan County Potter County
Training and Exercises At County Meetings Yes Yes Yes EMT Class Yes Yes Yes Fire Basic Class Yes Yes Yes County Offered Class Yes Yes ? Ride along LEO, EMS and PSAP None ? Hospital MCI Drills Yes None Yes
Usage PEMA Weather Exercise Yes Yes Yes Berwick Rad Drills Yes No No Planned Events Yes County Fair? 4th of July Event School Drills
All Fire, EMS and LEO have UHF Channels open to Local Other interop Gov LEO - uses 10 Codes LEO - 99.5 % PSP
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 29 of 47 Date November 12, 2009
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 30 of 47 County Bradford County Location Bradford 911 Attendees
Interoperability Continuum Governance Yes/ Sayre Fire also 24Hr County PSAP Dispatch Fire Board Yes LEO Board Yes MOUs No
Standard Operating Procedures 911 Center ? Field Users Manual SOPs Special Events No
Technology Fire Dispatch VHF - 150 MHz. Fire Tacs VHF - 150 MHz. Leo Dispatch VHF - 150 MHz. Leo Tacs VHF - 150 MHz. EMS Dispatch UHF - 450 MHz. EMS Tacs UHF - 450 MHz/ VHF 150 MHz Hospital Reports UHF - 450 MHz. Inter Hospital PA Star - 800 MHz. Local Gov VHF - 150 MHz PSP VHF - 150 MHz Forestry VHF - 150 MHz VHF - Low Band Dispatch - 46 Game Comm. MHz (VHF - 150 MHz in Cars) Interop Channel None Identified MDT No Mobile Data Gateway ACU-M VHF&UHF
County Bradford County North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 31 of 47 Training and Exercises At County Meetings Yes EMT Class Yes Fire Basic Class Yes County Offered Class ? Ride along ? Hospital MCI Drills Yes
Usage PEMA Weather Exercise Yes Berwick Rad Drills No Planned Events Yes
Other LEO - uses 10 Codes EMS - Also has Scramble Use VHF Statewide EMS (HEAR)
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 32 of 47 APPENDIX B: Public Safety Interoperable Communications (PSIC) Coverage Map
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 33 of 47
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 34 of 47 APPENDIX C: Current Coverage Map
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 35 of 47 North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 36 of 47 North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 37 of 47 APPENDIX D: Members of the NCTF-EB
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 38 of 47 North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 39 of 47 APPENDIX E: ICS-205 VHF INTEROPERABILITY CHANNEL GUIDE INCIDENT RADIO COMMUNICATIONS PLAN (ICS 205) 1. Incident Name: 2. Date/Time Prepared: 3. Operational Period: Date: Date From: Date To: Time: Time From: Time To: 4. Basic Radio Channel Use: Zon C Channel e h Name/Trunked Radio RX Freq RX Tone TX Freq TX Tone Mode Grp. # Function System Talk Group Assignment (Narrow) NAC (Narrow) NAC (A, D, or M) Remarks 1 V Call VCALL10 Command 155.7525 None Simplex 156.7 2 V Tac 1 VTAC11 151.1375 None Simplex 156.7 3 V Tac 2 VTAC12 154.4525 None Simplex 156.7 4 V Tac 3 VTAC13 158.7375 None Simplex 156.7 5 V Tac 4 VTAC14 159.4725 None Simplex 156.7 6 V Fire 1 VFIRE21 154.2800 156.7 Simplex 156.7 7 V Fire 2 VFIRE22 154.2650 156.7 Simplex 156.7 8 V Fire 3 VIFRE23 154.2950 156.7 Simplex 156.7 9 V Fire 4 VFIRE24 154.2725 156.7 Simplex 156.7 1 0 V Fire 5 VFIRE25 154.2875 156.7 Simplex 156.7 1 1 V Fire 6 VFIRE26 154.3025 156.7 Simplex 156.7 1 2 V MED 8 VMED28 155.3400 156.7 Simplex 156.7 HEAR Freq. 1 3 V MED 9 VMED29 155.3475 156.7 Simplex 156.7 1 National 4 V LAW 1 VLAW31 155.4750 None Simplex 156.7 Police 1 V LAW 2 VLAW32 155.4825 156.7 Simplex 156.7
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 40 of 47 5
5. Special Instructions: PA has established a statewide link/patch between VLAW31(National Emerg) and PA Star system (800). UCALL40 (UHF) is linked /patched to PA Star (800) across the state.
NCTF has established a link/patch between VCALL10 and UCALL40. This link/patch is also tied to all NCTF 911 Centers (PSAPs). PL 156.7 has been established as the national standard private line code. It is advisable to follow the National LE keeping mobile RxPl – CSQ.
6. Prepared by (Communications Unit Leader): Name: Signature: ICS 205 IAP Page _____ Date/Time:
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 41 of 47 Interoperable Communications Quick Reference Guide
Interoperability - The ability of emergency responders to communicate among jurisdictions, disciplines and levels of government, using a variety of frequency bands, as needed and as authorized. System operability is required for system interoperability.
Communications Plan - Following the "National Incident Management System" (NIMS) and National Response Framework (NRF), Communications (ESF2) needs established under the "Logistics Chief" to assist in managing your incident. (ICS-205) PLAIN LANGUAGE is to be used. No codes or abbreviations. Establish communications plan using National Interop Radio Channel
INCIDENT COMMAND
OPERATIONS LOGISTICS PLANNING FINANCE
-Communications Unit -Supply Unit -Facilities Unit -Ground Support Unit -Medical Unit -Food Unit
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 42 of 47 nit ID - The "Incident Commander" (IC) will establish the command staff whom will use those titles as their radio unit call sign. Example: The incident Commander would be called "Command", The Operations Chief would be called "Operations", etc...... All others will be assigned a designation by the communications unit. Initial unit ID should follow the following format: "State, County, NIMS Type, Number" Example: Citizens Fire Company Engine 45 responding out of county or state would use : "PA - Lycoming - Engine - 45" Single Unit Resources should refrain from using any IC titles to identify them self unless assigned by the Incident Commander.
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 43 of 47 APPENDIX F: DHS Shared Channels
County Type Agency Channel Title Simplex PL W/N Regional Authorized
Federal INTEROP 1 Vcall 10 155.7525 156.7 N FCC VHF 2 Vtac 11 151.1375 156.7 N FCC 3 Vtac 12 154.4525 156.7 N FCC 4 Vtac 13 158.7375 156.7 N FCC 5 Vtac 14 159.4725 156.7 N FCC 6 TAC17D 161.8500 156.7 N FCC 7 VFIR21 154.2800 156.7 N FCC 8 VFIR22 154.2650 156.7 N FCC 9 VFIR23 154.2950 156.7 N FCC 10 VFIR24 154.2725 156.7 N FCC 11 VFIR25 154.2875 156.7 N FCC 12 VFIR26 154.3025 156.7 N FCC 13 VMED28 155.3400 156.7 N FCC 14 VMED29 155.3475 156.7 N FCC *CSQ* 15 VLAW31 155.4750 156.7 RX N FCC 16 VLAW32 155.4825 156.7 N FCC
County Type Agency Channel Title Rx Rx PL Tx Tx PL W/N Regional Authorized Federal INTEROP Ucall 40 453.2125 156.7 458.2125 156.7 N FCC Ucall UHF 40D 453.2125 156.7 453.2125 156.7 N FCC Utac 41 453.4625 156.7 458.4625 156.7 N FCC Utac 41D 453.4625 156.7 453.4625 156.7 N FCC Utac 42 453.7125 156.7 458.7125 156.7 N FCC Utac 42D 453.7125 156.7 453.7125 156.7 N FCC Utac 43 453.8625 156.7 458.8625 156.7 N FCC Utac 43D 453.8625 156.7 453.8625 156.7 N FCC
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 44 of 47 APPENDIX G: ACRONYMS
Acronym Meaning ACS Auxiliary Communication Services ARES Amateur Radio Emergency Services COMC Communications Coordinator COML Communications Unit Leader DHS Department of Homeland Security DHS- OEC Department of Homeland Security Office of Emergency Communications EMS Emergency Medical Services EMT Emergency Medical Technician FCC Federal Communications Commission FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency HEAR Hospital Emergency Ambulance Radio HSEEP Homeland Security Exercise Evaluation Protocol ICP Incident Command Post IECGP Interoperable Emergency Communications Grant Program LEO Law Enforcement Officer MCI Mass Causality Incident MDT Mobile Data Terminal MOU Memoranda of Understanding NCTF North Central Taskforce NCTF – EB North Central Taskforce Executive Board NECP National Emergency Communications Plan
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 45 of 47 Acronym Meaning NEF National Emergency Frequency (formally National Police Channel) NPSPAC National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee of the FCC (shared Channels) OA Office of Administration (PA) OPRS Office of Public Safety Radio Services (PA) PA-STAR Net State Radio System (PA- 800Mhz. Radio System) PEMA Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency PSAP Public Safety Answering Point – 911 Center PSIC Public Safety Interoperable Communications PSP Pennsylvania State Police RACES Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services RAD Radiological RCTFs Regional Counter-Terrorism Task Forces RICP Regional Interoperable Communications Plan RICWG Regional Interoperable Communications Working Groups TEEP Training, Education and Exercise Plan SMEs Subject Matter Experts SOP Standard Operating Procedure STUMP Sustainment, Testing, Upgrade and Maintenance Plan UASI Urban Areas Security Initiative VCALL Department of Homeland Security Shared Channels - VHF
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 46 of 47 APPENDIX H: Standard Operating Procedure Templates
North Central Task Force (NCTF) - Regional Interoperable Communications Plan (RICP) Page 47 of 47