My point exactly... if they by a cheaper radio, but stay compatiable with P25, they could be able to talk to these folks or most anyone else for that matter! If they select TRBO or NXDN, forget it.
They don't need to talk to those folks. Congested radio traffic for Public Safety personnel would create a hazard. That is what the 9-1-1 operators are for, is to dispatch the proper units, update them as needed, and help coordinate a response. I "Do Not Need" some civilian giving me some story, that another civilan will probably contradict, and congest or tie up essential public safety communications.
A civilan wants to get some information to me. Dial 9-1-1. Unless the agency director, 9-1-1 administrator, or some person of authority signs off on it, the schools absolutely do not need public safety freqs in their radios.
A mutual-aid freq in one or two radios, as to talk to the EMS Supervisor, Fire Dept Captain, L/E Shift Commander? Maybe, I could see that. But unless they get a license, or permission from the appropriate admin, they need to stay off that radio freq. I would prefer to give a class, inservice to those whom may be allowed to have those freqs, as to proper radio procedure, what information is needed in an emergency, and to "keep it short and simple" as to not tie up the radio. And the mutual aid / emergency / agency freq is not for your own personal use. It is FOR EMERGENCYS only !!!
Civilans fighting over whom was going to get to "talk on the radio.". I can see that to.
FF - Medic !!!