The MOC is surrounded by cameras with 1 on either side, 1 in the back, and 2 at the front including a thermal camera on an extendable mast. A satellite dish on the roof allows for internet access and setup for wireless connectivity. There are 2 portable extendable masts to broaden the range for wireless access. The internet access also allows for the use of satellite telephones which we have both hard-wired and cordless phones for use in areas with limited or no cell phone coverage.
One side of the trailer has an 8 position dispatch room. Each position has telephone hookups and 2 computer monitors. The room also has 2 televisions for use for DVD, VCR, trailer cameras, TV, or computer webpages. This can serve as a dispatch room for a major incident or event and it can also be used as a backup dispatch center for an area.
The other side of the trailer is the command room. Again there are computers and monitors for the security cameras and internet access. But this room has a conference table and 2 smartboards. With the smartboards we can pull up the internet, television, security cameras, a DVD, or VHS tape, and webpages and use the screen as a computerized dry erase board. The command room and the dispatch room can be separated via doors to allow the 2 areas to function separately and without interference.
The Mobile Operations Center will be staffed by dispatchers in the Charlotte Fire Department. However on deployments to areas outside our jurisdiction we would like to have dispatchers/representatives from the local area we are operating in. On incidents within our jurisdiction we would like to have representatives from all agencies that are involved in the operation.
Feel free to contact me with any questions or comments at jhorn@ci.charlotte.nc.us.
