First Responder Support Tools (FiRST) Sharing Service (FSS) Operational Field Assessment

On September 18, 2013, the National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL) executed the Operational Field Assessment of the First Responder Support Tools (FiRST) Sharing Service (FSS) for the R-Tech program, a program that seeks to rapidly develop new technology solutions for first responders, in conjunction with the New York City Police Department (NYPD) at NUSTL in New York City.

The FSS is an extension of the FiRST application, which was developed by Applied Research Associates Inc. FiRST is a map-based tool used to help the first-on-the-scene responders coordinate response activities. FiRST is specifically designed to help responders handle incidents involving improvised explosive devices or hazardous materials incidents at the very critical moments before specialists can be brought to the scene. FSS is a suite of Web-based software tools that enhance the FiRST tool and allow information to be shared with other first responders who may need access to make more informed response decisions.