<p>Somewhere in America, right now, a police officer is pursuing a potentially violent suspect into a dark alley. Somewhere else, a firefighter is running into a burning building looking for a child. These people trained extensively for exactly these scenarios. But, when those moments actually happen, the sense of isolation can be overwhelming to those making life and death decisions.</p><p>New tools are coming to the street to aid first responders. Joining the traditional radio, mobile handheld digital devices are providing first responders with new information, new views of the tactical situation, and new ways to communicate with support personnel.</p><p>These devices and the networks behind them go well beyond the consumer tools they resemble. 4G networks enable tremendous bandwidth to be deployed by state, regional and local agencies. Connected to IP-enabled devices in the hands of first responders, these networks present the latest enabling technology for public safety.</p><p>4G Networks Help the HelpersTo maximize their utility, government CIOs and IT administrators must address the added complexity that comes with managing high-bandwidth digital networks, the devices connected to them and the usage models that are most effective under extreme conditions. Experience with traditional radio networks does not necessarily prepare IT administrators for this challenge and new options must be explored.</p><p><a href="http://www.policeone.com/communications/articles/6117638-Navigating-the-changes-in-police-communications-technology/">Keep reading...</a></p>