Cambria County, PA — Officials say their new 800 megahertz radio system will make their job easier, and communities safer.. “For us it’s been good, because it affords us new equipment, better technology, clearer channels.” says Richland Police Chief, Michael Burgan. “One of the things we did with our radios here is we bought a heavier duty microphone that’s waterproof, and can handle the higher heat, so we don’t damage the microphones.” says Johnstown Fire Chief, Bob Statler.

Encryption, and a wider coverage area, responders say are some of the main reasons. Johnstown Fire Chief, Bob Statler, says they do not use encryption, unlike police units including the Richland Township police department, who will be.

Cambria County E.M.A. Director, Art Martynuska, says this means the difference between issues being addressed sooner, rather than later.

“So, in turn with our firefighters and medical services, They’ll have better communications in areas where they didn’t have them before.” Martynuska says.

Officials say the older system that the county is transitioning from, is zoned. This in turn restricts means of communication between other radios.

Another upgrade is the emergency GPS function. Responders say there is a button that activates a beacon, to let other responders know where they are.

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