Fire Department gets $50K to upgrade communications The Oakville Fire Department has received a $50,000 federal grant to upgrade and improve its tactical communications system. The funding, which covers a significant portion of the $125,000 needed for the communications project, comes from Public Safety Canada's Joint Emergency Preparedness Program. Town staff said the new communications system, designed for first responders, allows emergency personnel to quickly and easily establish communications from a remote location. It can also be used in cases where there is a collapse or breakdown in communication infrastructure. "Communications, particularly in times of crisis, is critical for first responders," said Oakville Mayor Rob Burton. "This new system allows our fire department to improve its on-site communications and enhance its connection with other responding agencies in an emergency." Town staff said with the push of a button, the system provides secure telephone and two-way radio communications as well as creates a WiFi hotspot for on-site computer operations under any conditions. It can also be expanded in the future as new needs are identified and new capabilities become available. "The new tactical communications system will be an integral part of the new Oakville Fire Department Command Unit," said Oakville Fire Chief Lee Grant. "It gives us the confidence to know that no matter what the conditions, we'll be able to respond effectively to serve Oakville residents." 9 · Friday, March 30, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com European Engineering Combined With Traditional Workmanship 905.849.0266 n see As on V HT CHC "Building on the Brightest Ideas Around Glass" rin p S g Clean Up ! As see n Cityon Lin e CELEBRATING OUR 3RD ANNIVERSARY!!! RE-CONDITION, RECYCLE, AND RE-USE: · All Outdoor Furniture · Trellises & Urns · Cottage Furniture · Garage Sale Finds · Stored Furniture · All Types Of Doors G 10%eto all outd ff minim oor furnit ur u expire m spend $2 e, 00 s April 30th 905-631-REDO (7336) www.paintitlikenew.com #1A-1254 Plains Rd. E., Burlington, Ontario 10 am - 5 pm, Monday - Saturday CLIP & SAVE