First Responders Fact Sheet

Across the nation, more than 70,000 state, local, tribal and federal agencies and related entities support public safety and emergency response. These agencies and entities are faced with distinct resource, governance, policy and technological environments and limitations. As such, cross-discipline and cross-jurisdictional collaboration and coordination is a continuous challenge. The Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate is the Department’s primary interface with the first responder community. S&T supports the community’s ability to protect the homeland and respond to disasters by ensuring they have the equipment, technology, and information they need. S&T is separated into three divisions covering communications, equipment, and testing.