Ground Ambulance Radio Communications Guidance

Purpose

To provide guidance to ground ambulance services regarding radio systems and PSAP (Public Safety Answering Points) connections and to clarify the following communication requirements in 6 CCR 1015-3 Chapter 4, Section 13.2.3(A):

      1) On or before July 1, 2026, two (2) different forms of communications equipment on each permitted ambulance, to include:

a) Two-way voice radio communications with PSAP (Public Safety Answering Points) in good working order that will enable clear voice communications between ambulance personnel and the:

i) Ambulance service’s dispatch;

ii) Medical control facility or the medical control physician;

iii) Receiving facilities; and;

iv) Mutual aid agencies; and

b) A redundant form of communications equipment, which may include wireless telephones

Interpretation

• The rule requires licensed ground ambulance services to equip each permitted ambulance with at least one radio in good working order that allows for two-way voice communication with a PSAP, the service’s dispatch, medical control, receiving facilities, and mutual aid agencies.
• Multi-Agency Communications (MAC) channels are linked to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), allow for resource coordination and communication during emergencies, and provide connection to PSAPs for agencies that are not already contracted with a PSAP.
• Radios programmed to access MAC channels comply with the requirements.

Resources

• List of available MAC Channels
• Consolidated Communications Network of Colorado (CCNC) - Policy & Procedure Manual
• Consolidated Communications Network of Colorado (CCNC) - Radio 101 - Free radio training
• Contact local county emergency management in your area - For best practices concerning emergency communications
• Colorado 9-1-1 Program - Contact information for local PSAPs