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Dave Ford, Branch Chief
(614) 889-7154
rdford@dps.state.oh.us
The Communications Branch plays a large role in the development, deployment and maintenance of the communications and warning systems necessary to coordinate the disaster response needs of the state. It also develops and coordinates state and local warning and communications plans, to include the statewide Emergency Alert System and Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services. The branch also provides and maintains communications and warning systems in the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC), county EOCs, other state agencies, field units, and field command centers.
Ohio EMA's communication resources include the Multi-Agency Communications System (MARCS). MARCS is a statewide 800 MHz trunked voice and data radio system incorporating state agency and non-state agency users. The system is currently deployed to all of the county emergency management agencies and four National Weather Service offices, providing the largest interoperable voice communication network in the state. The Communications Branch also maintains a separate emergency VHF voice network which consists of 26 county EMAs.
The Communications Branch currently provides technical support for the 11 Buckeye State Sheriffs' Association Interoperability vehicles.
Unit 1 Ross County
Unit 2 Geauga County
Unit 3 Hancock County
Unit 4 Columbiana County
Unit 5 Montgomery County
Unit 6 Athens County
Unit 7 Ashland County
Unit 8 Lucas County
Unit 9 Mercer County
Unit 10 Guernsey County
Unit 11 Franklin County
Overall, the branch is responsible for the statewide coordination of emergency communications during times of disaster and is responsible for the development and maintenance of warning and communication devices at 459 sites throughout the state and at the State of Ohio Emergency Operations Center.
