The Network Fire Service Partnership is to move its command and control communications systems to the cloud, having awarded a tender to NEC Software Solutions
Fire and rescue services in the south of England make up the Network Fire Service Partnership, including Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, and the Kent Fire and Rescue Service recently joined the partnership.
NEC Software Solutions won the tender, which is for an initial six-year contract with a four-year extension. Under the contract, NEC will provide a hosted command, control and integrated communications system.
"It is vital that the partnership makes the best use of technology to ensure our control firefighters have the tools and information at their fingertips and can mobilise crews as quickly and effectively as possible," said Tony Oliver, assistant director of digital systems and information at the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire service.
The new system will be cloud based and hosted in NEC data centres. Fire services in the partnership will gain live video streaming and an officer's mobile application.
The roll out of the platform is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2026, NEC said in a statement.
