Chair's Message - CREST is Ten

Ten years ago, public safety organizations in the Capital Region used over 30 different radio systems for communicating. To reduce the risk for both emergency service providers and the public, CREST was formed in 2001, and its radio network became operational two years later.

Fast-forward to today, and there are 39 police, fire, ambulance and other public safety agencies sharing the CREST system. Allowing them to communicate with each other both within and outside their jurisdictions.

Recent earthquakes in Japan and New Zealand, the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico and even man-made disasters such as the London and Stanley Cup riots bring home the need for -- and value of -- an interoperable emergency radio system.

As with any technology-based system, there will continue to be operational and financial challenges to face. But, like was done ten years ago when 20 agencies from all levels of government came together to create a common voice communications platform for the Capital Region, CREST will continue to grow in ways that help save lives, protect property and enhance response during an emergency and every other day too.

- Gordie Logan, Chair of the Board

Lessons from Stanley Cup Riot

An independent review of the Stanley Cup riot in Vancouver includes somes radio communications lessons. Firstly, pre-planning for an event of this size should include the radio system provider. Doing so, allows system resources to be re-allocated to support the agencies managing the event. This is done by limiting access to other non-essential users during the event.

The other lesson learned was that outside agencies need to have common equipment. In the case of the Stanley Cup riots, the Abbotsford Police assisted, but didn't have EComm radios. This would be less of a problem in the Capital Region given the extent of CREST users and the kit of radios available for disasters and special events.

User Tip - Your Batteries Need Attention Too

The smart chargers supplied with CREST radios do a great job of maintaining your battery. However, batteries do fail and sooner or later reach the end of their life. Please pay close attention to the battery charge indicators (see photo):

Flashing red = Battery not serviceable, return to CREST

Flashing yellow/orange = If the battery is very warm or cold, charging will start later, otherwise return to CREST

Steady red = Battery is charging and should not be used

Flashing green = Battery is still charging, but is at 90% or above

Solid green = Fully charged and ready for service

Flashing red green = Battery not serviceable, return to CREST

Steady yellow/orange = Battery is undergoing a reconditioning cycle

If you feel that your battery isn't performing the way it should, please have it exchanged either in town at RadioWorks or at CREST's west shore office. Batteries are a part of your radio and are fully covered by CREST. 

New Development Supports CREST

One of the ways to continually enhance emergency radio reception and reliability is to have developers build public safety radio standards into major construction projects in the Region.

Colwood made that request of the developer of a multi-story, mixed use development on Latoria Road, and the result will mean better service for residents in the area and for CREST users.

Financial Update

At a recent meeting of the Board of CREST, the 2012 budget and an updated 5-year financial plan were approved. The budget calls for a 2.9% levy increase for user agencies that will go towards improving coverage in the region in 2012.

Self-Maintenance Nets Cost Savings

Investments made in equipment and the building hosting CREST have resulted in annual cost savings of approximately $300,000. As a result of having space and equipment, staff are able to do maintenance on the system thereby building staff expertise, improving responsiveness, and freeing up resources for  infrastructure.

Building & Measuring CREST's Reputation

One of CREST's strategic plan priorities is to build public confidence in the system and the company. To that end, a series of bus and radio ads informing people of CREST's reliability are running to mid-December. Telephone surveys will follow to measure our goal of increased public awareness, understanding and support.