Member's Area
The Member's Area contains an extensive knowledge base of communication procedures for Boston Fire Fighters.  Access is restricted to users on the BFD network..




Early Days

In October 1923, the first use of fire service two-way radio in the United States was introduced in Boston.  Initially used for communications with the fireboats, the simultaneous transmission of alarms by radio was commenced on June 26, 1928

 

 

 

Radio Supervisor
Joseph Brooks

©2008

 


Frequencies
Boston Firefighters utilize 4 repeated channels for fireground operations, 1 channel for station alerting, and 10 channels for tactical operations.  If you own a scanner here are the frequencies that will allow you to listen in.
 
Voice Radio Communications Guide 

This guide to firefighter communications systems is geared towards system planners but should be a "must-read" for all fire fighters.

 

 


BFD/MBHSR Channel Plan
 

All radios assigned to firefighting units comply with the Metro Boston Homeland Security Region's channel plan, The plan provides 6 interoperability zones used by the 9 member communities.      Rev.: 2/11/2009

 

In-Building Radio Coverage
The Boston Fire Department requires that high-rise buildings, and certain other structures, provide reliable radio communications for firefighters.  The In-Building Radio specification and related forms are available in the In-Building Radio Section.


Related Links
Tactical Interoperable Communications Plan

National Interoperabilty Field Operations Guide

Mayor's Office of Emergency Preparedness

Metro Boston Interop