Breaking down barriers: Delivering and implementing information and communications technologies in fire and rescue services across England

摘要

It is almost a truism that information and data are the lifeblood of any modem organisation, and whether or not we believe the sometimes overblown claims for the latest technological fashion or fad, we all recognise the importance of robust and effective systems to generate, manage and share information and data. Nowhere is it more significant man in the emergency services. Having ready access to information, data and communication systems underpins their ability to prevent incidents, protect our communities, and to protect emergency service workers when responding. In recent years this has been brought to the fore with critical incidents at Grenfell Tower, Manchester Arena and the attacks on London Bridge demonstrating how information is vital to effective emergency response. At the time of writing, we are amidst a global pandemic which has also highlighted the importance of efficient and effective digital processes, robust communication networks and deploying up-to-date technologies rapidly.