Alexandria, VA – Recognizing the value of mobile applications (apps) and other tools made possible by new technologies, the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International has issued a new position on public safety app development. Recent innovations in public safety communications, such as the FirstNet nationwide public safety broadband network and deployment of Next Generation 9-1-1 services, have created opportunities for apps to revolutionize the way our nation’s first responders and 9-1-1 communications centers operate.

“APCO’s technical resources, experience as an ANSI standards-setting body and expertise in public safety communications position the organization to serve a central role in fostering a vibrant environment for public safety app development,” said APCO President Terry Hall.  “As the leader in public safety communications, APCO will collaborate with public safety practitioners and the app developer community to drive innovative, effective and secure apps for the benefit of public safety.”

Today, three public safety apps were featured at APCO’s Emerging Technology Forum during the educational session entitled, “Innovating New Tools and Apps for First Responders.”  These apps represent the potential to revolutionize emergency response and more information on these apps can be found here. If you have additional inquiries or feedback, please email apps@apcointl.org.

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About APCO International™ (www.apcointl.org)
APCO International is the world’s largest organization of public safety communications professionals.  It serves the needs of public safety communications practitioners worldwide – and the welfare of the general public as a whole – by providing complete expertise, professional development, technical assistance, advocacy and outreach.