NCJ Number
209806
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 32 Issue: 4 Dated: April 2005 Pages: 100,102,105
Date Published
April 2005
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article describes the mobile computing technology used in the Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP), which is a comprehensive plan to provide protection to the regional rural population that encompasses Hermiston, OR, in the event of a catastrophe at the U.S. Army's Umatilla Chemical Stockpile located near Hermiston.
Abstract
CSEPP involves as many as 400 emergency responders, the majority of them local volunteers, and Hermiston police officers. The key to CSEPP is real-time communications in an emergency situation. To overcome existing communications shortcomings, CSEPP purchased just over 50 TDS Recon handheld computers from Tripod Data Systems. This computer is built for withstanding adverse weather conditions, exposure to water and dust, and rough handling. It has two-way wireless communication capability. These new handheld computers provide the needed real-time communication among responders, who can be spread over hundreds of square miles. Further, they allow central dispatchers to lay chemical plume dispersal diagrams over local maps to be sent to responders in the field. Using the Recon's two CompactFlash slots, CSEPP can add features such as GPS, Bluetooth, barcode scanners, and cameras. The Hermiston police are using the handhelds to expedite evacuations. Along with local agencies and cities, CSEPP helped create the largest WiFi network in the world: a 600-square-mile wireless LAN that connects seven cities in two States. The future and growth of mobile computing will be shaped by developments in two key areas: wireless technology and expanded applications.