New GPS tracking system, DropBlock, unveiled by RoGO Communications, specifically designed for wildland firefighters.
In a bid to enhance wildfire response and disaster management, RoGO Communications, a company specialising in lifesaving technology for first responders, has unveiled DropBlock 2.0. This innovative satellite communication device is designed specifically for wildfire response and other disaster scenarios.
Portable Satellite Connectivity
DropBlock 2.0 offers robust satellite internet and communication capabilities, providing a reliable connection in areas where terrestrial networks are compromised or non-existent, such as wildfire zones and disaster-hit regions.
Rapid Deployment and Durability
The device is designed for quick setup and activation in the field, enabling first responders and emergency personnel to establish reliable communication links immediately. It is engineered to withstand harsh environmental conditions typical of disaster zones, ensuring consistent performance under extreme heat, smoke, or debris.
Data and Voice Communication
DropBlock 2.0 supports both data transmission (sending status updates, images, maps) and voice communication, facilitating coordination among teams.
Enhanced Situational Awareness and Improved Safety
By enabling uninterrupted communication, DropBlock 2.0 helps emergency teams maintain real-time situational awareness, improving decision-making and coordination during wildfire suppression and rescue operations. Reliable communication support ensures that personnel can quickly share critical updates or call for help, enhancing responder safety.
Network Independence, Scalability, and Flexibility
Since it relies on satellite connectivity, DropBlock 2.0 bypasses damaged or overloaded terrestrial infrastructure, ensuring communications remain operational when traditional networks fail. Its portable form factor allows it to be deployed in various disaster environments beyond wildfires, such as floods, hurricanes, or earthquakes.
DropBlocks: More than Just Communication
DropBlocks also share hyper-local weather information, including wind speed, direction, temperature, humidity, and IoT sensor data. They are useful in tracking bulldozers, water tenders, fire engines, high-value structures, medical evacuation rescue, and makeshift water resources.
The Story Behind DropBlock 2.0
RoGO Communications was founded by Rod Goossen and his brother Derek with a mission to develop technology that can save lives of wildland firefighters. The new DropBlocks are smaller in size and weight, making them suitable for wildland firefighters who often hike into remote areas with no cellular networks. The reduced size and weight better enable immediate deployment to support the initial attack of a wildfire.
The Future of Disaster Response
In addition to the current DropBlock 2.0, RoGO is developing a new smartphone app that will provide point-to-point communications and tactical collaboration at the edge, in addition to sharing location and weather data. This app is set to further revolutionise disaster response, offering immediate tactical coordination and lifesaving situational awareness.
In summary, DropBlock 2.0 serves as a vital tool in disaster communication by providing fast, durable, and reliable satellite-based connectivity, thereby improving response efficiency, safety, and coordination in challenging conditions.
