2026 Agenda

Each year, Police1, FireRescue1 and EMS1 survey thousands of first responders to better understand their needs, concerns and priorities. The annual “What Cops Want,” “What Firefighters Want” and “What Paramedics Want” surveys provide unique insight into the realities of leadership, staffing, training, equipment and communications across public safety.

This session will share the top findings from these national surveys and connect them directly to the world of critical communications. Attendees will learn the most pressing challenges facing first responders and how communications and technology can address them—from dispatch reliability to field connectivity. The presenter will highlight what responders say they need most to succeed in serving their communities.

By grounding the discussion in hard data from across police, fire and EMS, this session will equip technology leaders, policymakers and communications professionals with a frontline perspective on how communications systems can best support the people who keep our communities safe.

Takeaway

• Understand the top challenges facing police, fire and EMS in 2026.

• Hear directly what first responders say they want from their leaders and technology tools.

• Translate survey insights into priorities for communications leadership and infrastructure.