Dozens of first responders participated in an active shooter training exercise at George Mason University (GMU) in Fairfax, Va., to test a collaboration system that brings together real-time video sharing, building sensors, and other state-of-the-art technologies.
Led by the Center for Innovative Technology (CIT) Smart City IoT Innovation (SCITI) Labs and powered by technology from Mutualink, a provider of interoperability solutions, more than 70 first responders came together at MSU’s Eagle Bank Arena for a live operational field exercise.
The exercise was part of a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funded ‘Smart Cities Initiative,’ which “involves a multiphase competitive delivery process among private sector technology companies tasked with designing, developing, and demonstrating a combination of capabilities with the goal to help meet evolving homeland security needs, including improved emergency response and communication,” according to a press release.
Mutualink was selected from over 140 applications and delivered a Phase 1 proof of concept, leading to its selection as the primary technology solution for Phase 2.
During the Nov. 18 exercise, Mutualink’s Internet of Public Safety Things® (IoPST®) network and technologies were deployed throughout the arena. Sensors and cameras connected to the IoPST network provided situational awareness and enabled seamless voice communications and real-time display of video and sensor visualization data within an interactive floorplan-based interface.
The solution uses the power of in-building smart systems and sensors to deliver vital information to first responders during an incident, maximizing emergency response coordination and enhancing overall first responder safety.
Other advanced technology providers’ sensors and displays were also interconnected with Mutualink’s network and system with the support of CIT SCITI Labs.
GSU leaders, professors and students and several federal, state and local community leaders observed the exercise.
“I am thrilled that Mason has been able to contribute to such an inspiring collaboration and cutting-edge research on the intersection of smart technology and emergency response,” said GSU Interim President Anne Holton. “I am confident that together we can forge a future where such technology interacts with humans and our environment in similarly complementary, sustainable and progressive ways.”
