CHARLOTTE RADIO DEAD ZONES BLOCK POLICE, FIRE COMMUNICATION
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A recent investigation by WBTV has uncovered a major safety concern for police, firefighters, and first responders at some of Charlotte’s busiest and most popular destinations. The investigation revealed emergency radio dead zones in two local shopping centers, with one of them having pervasive issues.
Emergency Radio Dead Zones
The issue of radio dead zones is so significant that the Charlotte Fire Department has been in frequent communication with mall management following several major responses where communication problems were experienced. According to a spokesperson for the fire department, “These radios are critical to saving lives.”
Ross Pierson, CEO of Pierson Wireless, a Charlotte-based company specializing in signal enhancement systems, emphasized the importance of clear communication in emergency situations. He stated, “Are they in trouble? Do they need help? Where are they at? It just becomes that much more of a dangerous situation for all of us if the radio fails.”
Testing Locations
WBTV and Pierson Wireless conducted signal strength tests at three locations across the county:
- Northlake Mall
- South Park Mall
- Charlotte Convention Center
Results
Results from the testing revealed varying levels of signal strength:
Northlake Mall:
- All areas tested on the first floor were below the minimum code requirement.
- The second floor showed slightly better coverage but still below the requirement in many places.
South Park Mall:
- Mall corridors had excellent signal strength, likely due to windows lining the roof.
- A department store on the second floor showed slightly worse coverage.
Charlotte Convention Center:
- Excellent signal strength was detected throughout the building.
- An Emergency Radio Communications Enhancement System (ERCES) was installed in preparation for the 2020 Republican National Convention.
While the testing equipment measured inbound signal strength, a complete test would include ensuring communication can make it out of the building as well.
Consequences and Recommendations
Efforts to address the radio dead zones at Northlake Mall have included meetings between the Charlotte Fire Department, mall management, CMPD, and Motorola. Despite these efforts, the issue persists, leaving both first responders and the public vulnerable in emergency situations.
Building owners are encouraged to consider installing enhancement systems to improve radio coverage in their facilities. Maintaining repeater systems and ensuring they are functioning properly is also crucial for effective communication during emergencies.
Importance of Clear Communication
First responders rely on their radios as a lifeline during emergencies. Clear and reliable communication is essential for their safety and the safety of the public. Commercial property managers are urged to prioritize technology that enhances radio coverage to ensure the well-being of occupants and emergency responders.
The Charlotte Fire Department has implemented initiatives such as a loaner radio program and repeater systems to aid in improving signal strength and communication reliability. Educating building owners about the importance of maintaining communication systems is vital in enhancing overall safety.
As the issue of radio dead zones remains a common concern, efforts to address and rectify these problems are essential in safeguarding lives and property.
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