How Law Enforcement Uses Telescopic Masts
You may be surprised to learn that a majority of law enforcement agencies operate without a fully-staffed police force. According to reports, 86% of U.S. police departments operate with a shortage of officers.
That presents problems for speed and efficiency in dealing with crime across the country.
Law enforcement agencies now have an elevated advantage over criminals. This rapid deployment portable tower is changing the way law enforcement monitors critical incidents and more.
Read on to find out how The RATT’s telescopic mast is solving one of law enforcement’s biggest problems.
What Is a Telescopic Mast?
A telescopic or telescoping mast is a portable tower that gives first responders quick access to elevated coverage.
The mast is transported in the retracted position. It requires a Class III 2×2” hitch receiver, which is standard on many SUVs and trucks.The RATT can also be wall-mounted, deployed freestanding on a tripod or on a small trailer.
Once it’s on location, one person can extend the pole and set it up in less than 5 minutes. The mast can elevate cameras, antennas, lights, and RF antennas 30 to 50 feet in the air. The RATT adapts to most terrains and takes less than 2 minutes to fully extend.
These systems offer rapid deployment of surveillance, during the day or night, giving agencies a tactical advantage. The elevated surveillance camera allows law enforcement to monitor and control it from a safe distance and/or via the cloud.
Law Enforcement Benefit of a Telescopic Mast
Citizens’ safety depends on the speed, efficiency, and reliability of the officer’s response and their equipment. Rapid deployment of a telescopic mast “overwatch” helps find threats.
It is ideal for monitoring large crowds at events and border patrol. It enhances safety by lighting crime or emergency scenes. These devices can also serve to establish perimeter protection.
Since this device is portable, it allows the surveillance to relocate as needed. It is useful when tracking criminals and for search and rescue. They are also used during emergencies such as fires or storms.
Features of Telescopic Mast Surveillance
Portable telescoping masts used with cameras, lights, or other communication equipment increase flexibility. It’s functional on most types of terrain and deployable using any vehicle via the hitch receiver.
The RATT can be the primary information feed for command centers. Communication equipment can upload and download pertinent data. It has built-in redundancies to prevent downtime if the electric pump fails.
These devices don’t need batteries or software updates. They’re almost maintenance-free and don’t require an FAA UAV pilot’s license. Departments can deploy these masts for temporary or permanent use without extensive training.
Uses of Telescopic Masts by Law Enforcement
The American Bar Association advocates the use of technology-assisted physical surveillance. It can facilitate the detection, investigation, prevention, and deterrence of crime. It also increases the safety of our citizens and officers.
Many law enforcement agencies use telescopic masts to extend the reach of their officers and deputies. The following provides examples of how this device can optimize your department’s effectiveness.
Crime Deterrence
Some departments have placed these telescoping mast surveillance tools in high-crime areas, including those plagued with drug deals and street crime.
Once word gets around that the area has 24/7 surveillance, it will help reduce crime in the immediate area. Criminals don’t want video footage that will serve as evidence against them in court.
Neighborhoods have quickly reported a reduction in criminal activity. Often, residents ask for the surveillance to be kept there permanently. Also, residents can tell police about problem areas to specifically monitor.
This serves to decrease crime, increase the collection of evidence and improve police-citizen relations. Telescopic masts reduce costs while expanding coverage for overburdened public safety agencies.
Alleviating High-Disturbance Situations
Large gatherings, such as parades, protests, concerts, and other events, can sometimes become unruly.
The RATT can prevent escalation that may lead to fights, graffiti, and looting. Officers have a “bird’s eye” view from a safe location. Since the device is portable, they’re also in a position to respond quickly.
Emergency Situations
During natural or man-made disasters, it’s vital to establish first responder communication. Telescoping masts can leverage internet and satellite access to re-establish the use of radios and video assets.
Communication between local, state, and federal agencies is invaluable to emergency response. Coordination ensures an optimized and efficient response.
The command station can move as needed with speed and minimal effort. Emergencies are fluid situations, and you need flexible support systems.
Supporting National Defense
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, National Protection and Programs Directorate, and Federal Protective Service protect our nation. That includes both government and private property and individuals.
Our country has learned that we face potential threats regularly. Employing portable surveillance devices in combination with these command centers, provides more flexibility, unlike large command centers.
The enhanced communication features ensure that everyone stays on the same page. It supports a coordinated response effort and the ability to change tactics quickly.
Does Your Department Need Faster Surveillance options?
Law enforcement’s duties and responsibilities continue to grow. Unfortunately, staffing doesn’t always keep up with the increased demands. New technologies are helping officers to coordinate multiple teams and respond with confidence.
The Rapid All-Terrain Tower, or The RATT, provides a variety of rapid deployment surveillance solutions used by law enforcement and the military.
Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.