GPS Tracking Service Expands for Wildland Firefighters: RoGO Communications Introduces DropBlock
In a significant stride towards improving wildfire response efforts, RoGO Communications has unveiled DropBlock 2.0, a cutting-edge satellite communication device designed specifically for firefighting operations. The new product is a testament to the vision of Rod Goossen and his brother Derek, founders of RoGO, who have a personal connection to wildfire fighting, having served on teams fighting over 100 wildfires before establishing the company to develop technology that could save lives of wildland firefighters.
DropBlock 2.0 is equipped with a robust and portable design, enabling it to withstand harsh environments typically encountered during wildfires and emergency response situations. The device provides reliable satellite communication where cellular or other traditional networks are unavailable or compromised. Its compact form factor makes it lightweight and easily transportable to remote locations, ideal for wildland firefighters who often operate in areas with no cellular networks.
Key features of DropBlock 2.0 include encrypted communication, long battery life, real-time data transmission, multi-user support, and easy deployment. These features ensure secure data transmission critical for operational security during emergency responses, support real-time voice and data communications to improve situational awareness, allow multiple team members to connect simultaneously, and facilitate quick setup and use in the field by first responders and wildfire crews.
The benefits of DropBlock 2.0 are manifold. It enhances communication reliability, improves coordination among firefighting teams, increases safety by providing timely alerts and updates, allows for rapid response during fast-changing wildfire conditions, and supports the transmission of critical information such as maps, weather updates, and incident reports to optimise response strategies.
The new DropBlocks enable immediate tactical coordination and lifesaving situational awareness by tracking the location of crews, equipment, and resources such as bulldozers, water tenders, fire engines, high-value structures, medical evacuation rescue teams, and makeshift water resources. A new smartphone app is in development for DropBlock 2.0, providing point-to-point communications and tactical collaboration at the edge.
Rod Goossen, the CEO of RoGO, stated that the reduced size and weight of DropBlock 2.0 allow for immediate deployment to support the initial attack of a wildfire, a time of high risk for firefighters. DropBlock 2.0 was developed based on feedback from wildland firefighter field trials, further demonstrating its relevance and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
RoGO satellite-based products and services support firefighting efforts across local, state, and federal agencies in the Western United States. Moreover, these services extend to first responders in other disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and search and rescue teams. This data is also shared with Incident Command, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated response.
In conclusion, DropBlock 2.0 represents a significant leap forward in wildfire response capabilities by delivering robust, secure, and reliable satellite communications tailored to the demands of emergency situations. The new smartphone app, a forthcoming feature, is expected to further enhance the immediate tactical coordination and situational awareness provided by DropBlock 2.0.
Science and technology have come together in a remarkable way with RoGO Communications' DropBlock 2.0, a satellite communication device specifically designed for firefighting operations. This innovative gadget is a product of the vision of Rod Goossen and his brother Derek, both veterans of over 100 wildfires who established RoGO to develop technology that could save lives.
The device's features include encrypted communication, long battery life, real-time data transmission, multi-user support, and easy deployment, making it ideal for wildland firefighters who operate in remote, often cellular network-less, environments.
DropBlock 2.0 is not just limited to wildfire response. The data it transmits is shared with Incident Command, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated response in other disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and search and rescue efforts.
As technology continues to evolve, DropBlock 2.0 is set to undergo further enhancements with a new smartphone app in development. This app is expected to provide point-to-point communications and tactical collaboration at the edge, elevating the device's potential in improving emergency response strategies.
