The California Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee (CALSIEC) was established in 2003 by CAL EMA in response to a FCC tasking for the management of designated interoperability spectrum. CALSIEC is made up of representatives of local, tribal, state, and federal first responder organizations within California and is working on the development of a comprehensive Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan consolidating all of California’s current discipline-specific communications plans and establishing technical and operational protocols and governance structures for interoperability at all levels. CALSIEC is viewed as a major partner and player in the state’s modernization and interoperability efforts by addressing the statewide (local, tribal, state, and federal) communications interoperability needs.
What is communications interoperability? Interoperability refers to the ability of emergency responders to work seamlessly with other systems or products without any special effort. Wireless communications interoperability specifically refers to the ability of emergency response officials to share information via voice and data signals on demand, in real time, when needed, and as authorized. For example, when communications systems are interoperable, police and firefighters responding to a routine incident can talk to each other to coordinate efforts. Communications interoperability also makes it possible for emergency response agencies responding to catastrophic accidents or disasters to work effectively together. Finally, it allows emergency response personnel to maximize resources in planning for major predictable events such as the Super Bowl or an inauguration, or for disaster relief and recovery efforts.
Contra Costa County will have no representation on this committee and the seats designated for the County may be reassigned to other jurisdictions.