Ohio EMA Announces Emergency Communication Pilot Program in Jefferson County: TEST

The Ohio EMA has announced the implementation of a new pilot project in Jefferson County aimed at strengthening redundant communications and enhancing emergency preparedness in the event of a terrorist or large-scale event. This initiative coordinates efforts to enhance the community's ability to maintain essential medical functions during a prolonged power outage. Specifically, the risk of residents being unable to refrigerate critical medications or operate vital medical devices.

Supported through the Department of Homeland Security, FEMA, and Homeland Security Grant dollars funding, the pilot project focuses on improving countywide access to emergency communication and power resources. The effort includes the strategic placement of Starlink devices and generators across Jefferson County to ensure that residents retain access to reliable communication services and backup power in the event of a disruption to the primary electrical supply.

The Starlink System aims to deliver high-speed, reliable internet anywhere, including remote regions where traditional broadband is unavailable or unreliable.

This project was made possible through a partnership between Ohio EMA and Jefferson County EMA who worked collaboratively to plan, coordinate, and deploy these new resources.

"As threats to critical infrastructure continue to evolve, it is essential that communities have the tools needed to remain safe, connected, and resilient," said Ohio Emergency Management Executive Director, Sima Merick. "This pilot project represents a proactive and cooperative effort to protect the health and well-being of Jefferson County residents during emergencies."