|
Mutual Aid Box Alarm System Communications Committee |
| ADVOCACY STATEMENT #7 |
| Statewide Radio License |
|
1.0 PURPOSE
To permit the sharing of the MABAS statewide radio authorization, WQAG579, for the IFERN and IFERN2 dispatch frequencies and the Red, White, Blue, Gold, Black & Gray fireground frequencies with MABAS member departments operating under the signed MABAS agreement and their affiliated emergency response entities.
2.0 SCOPE
This policy applies to all MABAS member agencies. It is encouraged that all fire departments and related emergency response organizations throughout Illinois adopt the procedures set forth herein.
3.0 BACKGROUND
The Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS), an intergovernmental agency, has been granted an authorization by the Federal Communications Commission to operate mobile and temporary fixed base stations throughout the State of Illinois on the eight (8) “MABAS” frequencies. This authorization was obtained to ensure fire service interoperability throughout Illinois at emergency incidents and disaster scenes.
4.0 POLICY/PROCEDURE
In accordance with Part 90, Subpart H, Section 179 of the Federal Communications Commission’s rules and regulations, Shared Use of Radio Stations, the MABAS Executive Board hereby authorizes the shared use by member MABAS departments and their affiliated emergency response organizations, that qualify for public safety licensure, frequencies authorized by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on call sign WQAG579 provided that all of the following conditions are met:
4.1 The use of the identified MABAS frequencies will be restricted to emergency scene communications and official training activities. Use of the frequencies for non-emergency activities is prohibited.
4.2 Member departments using the MABAS authorization agree to abide by all applicable FCC rules and regulations.
4.3 Member departments using the MABAS authorization agree to abide by all relevant MABAS Communications Advocacy Statements.
4.4 Member departments using the MABAS authorization agree to limit transmit power to a maximum of ten (10) watts on the Red, White, Blue, Gold, Black & Gray fireground frequencies.
4.5 Member departments must only program IFERN 2 and Gold, Black and Gray fireground frequencies using narrowband emissions.
5.0 CONCLUSION
The FCC has the authority to cease radio operations, levy monetary fines and seize radio equipment, even public safety radio equipment, which is being operated in violation of their rules. Neither the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System or the MABAS Executive Board will accept responsibility for operations by member or non-member entities on the eight (8) MABAS frequencies that are in conflict with FCC rules or are in conflict with this advocacy statement, MABAS rules and regulations or any other local, state or federal law. Any sanctions imposed by the Federal Communications Commission, including fines, costs and attorney’s fees incurred by MABAS due to a member or non-member entity’s improper use of the MABAS frequencies shall be the responsibility of the offending party.
Approved by the MABAS Executive Board on February 5, 2004.
Effective: May 26, 2004
MABAS Statewide Radio License Statement |