When disaster strikes an area, cell service is often knocked out. That's why first responders are looking into a product called FirstNet -- which would could help keep the lines of communication open.
The people behind FirstNet are working to convince first responders in our area that we need a new cellular system assigned just for them. "It's going to change the way that police officers, firefighters and paramedics work,” said FirstNet senior advisor Bill Schrier.
Schrier says a cellular band separate from commercial use would mean fewer dropped calls or network congestion, especially during an emergency.
One example he pointed out was the 2014 Seahawks victory parade in downtown Seattle, when cellular networks jammed and affected the work of local law enforcement.