Clarky
Member
I recently checked with a friend in the northern part of the county to ascertain if any radios have been installed in their fire apparatus. He said they are still waiting.
Okaloosa County P25 (014.924B5)
- Thread starter Clarky
- Start date
Just an update, I just had a positive interaction with a OCSO Sgt and they are using Harris XL-185 Portable Radios among other models I’m sure of.
Just so it's been aware, are they specifically using 5000s TGs Full Time or is it over on 11000s? There's vague information on the DB for those that are still new with this system.
As of December 31, 11021 has been popping up but is ENC. Crestview maybe?
commtech124
Member
11021 Is still a SO TG.
Another public system goes to E. Bummer
Clarky
Member
Clarky
Member
Does anyone know if fire will be encrypted?
I don't see that happening, but we will see.
Looks like Okaloosa Sheriff has shut down the conventional patches to the new P25 system. They are now fully encrypted as of 2/4/25.
Fort Walton PD is still running a patch but I'm sure there next on the list. This will mark the entire N.W. Florida area Sheriffs and Police being encrypted. I've been monitoring this area since the early 1990's. At least I still have Fire Dispatch to monitor.
Fort Walton PD is still running a patch but I'm sure there next on the list. This will mark the entire N.W. Florida area Sheriffs and Police being encrypted. I've been monitoring this area since the early 1990's. At least I still have Fire Dispatch to monitor.
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SMH
commtech124
Member
Rumor is everyone will be enc in Okaloosa
Clarky
Member
There is absolutely no reason to encrypt the fire departments. Very disappointing.
Well, well well, this evening Okaloosa Sheriff is in the clear again. They keep going back and forth.
I'm listening to the Sheriff's office now patched to their analog system. as far as FWBPD goes I've heard nothing on all frequencies. Niceville is still patched to their DMR system.
Yep, FWB PD seems to be fully on the new system. Subject to change.
Clarky
Member
I am concerned about the potential impact of encrypting the Okaloosa County Fire Channels, especially for volunteer firefighters and public access to emergency information. Encryption could create challenges for those who rely on scanners or non-encrypted radios to monitor calls while responding to incidents.
Many fire departments choose not to encrypt their channels unless there’s a compelling security or privacy concern. Since fire and rescue operations don’t typically deal with sensitive information like law enforcement does, public access to these channels can be valuable for situational awareness, especially in large-scale emergencies.
If encryption is being considered, it’s worth raising these concerns with local officials, fire chiefs, and county leaders. Encouraging an open discussion about the necessity and potential downsides of encryption could help ensure that the best decision is made for both firefighters and the public.
Many fire departments choose not to encrypt their channels unless there’s a compelling security or privacy concern. Since fire and rescue operations don’t typically deal with sensitive information like law enforcement does, public access to these channels can be valuable for situational awareness, especially in large-scale emergencies.
If encryption is being considered, it’s worth raising these concerns with local officials, fire chiefs, and county leaders. Encouraging an open discussion about the necessity and potential downsides of encryption could help ensure that the best decision is made for both firefighters and the public.
Anyone needing access to the encrypted talk groups as long as they have a reason to have the talk group will receive it ( ie. volunteers) regarding emergency information for the public, emergency management will ensure the public gets the right information, not what is interpreted by those listening to talk groups.
Just Law, EMS and Fire not PS and Beach
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