Issue link: https://let.epubxp.com/i/254119
10 Law Enforcement Technology February 2014 www.officer.com PUBLIC SAFETY the ability to recruit qualified applicants can also be a challenge. Part of meeting the common mission of a PSAP is the ability to stay up with technology. Both KU and Port of Seattle seem to be doing well in this regard. "We are in the middle of a county-wide upgrade to Motorola P25 trunked 800," states Phillips. The Cassidian Patriot phone system will be upgraded again to the newest version in spring 2014. The Port of Seattle is also in the middle of a major radio system upgrade with Motorola. "That will be completed by the end of first quarter 2014," states McCaughan. "We have our own system outside King County. It will help us com- municate more seamlessly with them. We're doing a CAD upgrade in 2014 [being] brought online in early 2015." Phillips believes staying up and even ahead in technology is important with non-traditionals. "We have the resources and knowledge base to do it," she says. In reference to texting, "We have to solve that problem now and we can't wait for the 911 system to catch up. They don't know how to talk on the phone," she says of their community. "We need the ability to notify these kids, so the technology needs to stay in front of the constituency. We have to be creative and think outside the box to address issues head on." McCaughan states the Port of Seattle's infrastructure exists for NG911, but they're not ready yet. The technology is in place, but the operational side is lack- ing as far as 911 centers handling text messages and transfers. Her message to customers once it comes online, "Call if you can. Text if you can't." "We want the non-traditionals to reach out to the traditionals and make partnerships," expresses Phillips. "We've proven it can be done and it can be done well. Make the connections and share resources." Wooten furthers it's about understanding what is going on at the non-traditional center. "It's about forg- ing relationships and getting outside our normal day to day operations, and under- standing those partners that surround us." For public safety professionals work- ing at traditional and non-traditionals alike, take a look around you, see who else is out there, figure out how to work together and build on everyone's strengths. Residents, seaport workers, hospital visitors and the traveling public will thank you. ■ Michelle Perin has been a freelance writer since 2000. In December 2010, she earned her Master's degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Indiana State University. OUR JOB IS TO HELP YOU GET THERE AND BACK HOME. Your job is to tackle ADVERSITY every day. Brunswick Commercial and Government Products (BCGP) is a division of Brunswick Corporation — the largest marine manufacturer in the world. BRUNSWICK COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT PRODUCTS, INC. 386.423.2900 • brunswickcgp.com Like you, Brunswick Commercial and Government Products (BCGP) boats are built to go the distance. Fast. Dependable. Capable. Choose from extraordinarily stable Impact rigid hull infatables or unsinkable fberglass Boston Whalers to get you there and back. With more than 50 years dedicated to building commercial boats, the only thing that matches the longevity of our boats is our company. • Ample dry storage for weapons and computer equipment • Ergonomic designs built for the working professional • Choice of fberglass and RHIB hulls ranging from 15-39 feet • Superior after-the-sale customer service 850 IMPACT RHIB 24' JUSTICE 37' JUSTICE Circle 53 on Reader Service Card LET_06-10SeaAirportCities0214.indd 10 1/24/14 12:36 PM