Case Study: Network Innovations Enables National Park Visitors to Stay Safe & Connected

Large national park overcomes safety barriers with Network Innovations’ custom connectivity solution.

 The challenge

A national park is a natural park in use for conservation purposes, created and protected by national governments. Almost always open to visitors, the remote nature of national parks worldwide means you’re often far from civilization and cellular phone service, posing a risk to the safety of those planning an off-the-grid trip.

A large national park in Australia found themselves challenged with effective emergency communications. Characterized by coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, and eucalyptus-rich bushland, the coastal park is used by large numbers of people, seeking the expanses of its breathtaking landscapes.

Due to it’s geography, no cellular phone coverage is available. For an explorer in trouble, this means no way of calling for help. The park authorities had installed a radio-based phone, however, it wasn’t performing consistently and often failed to reach the “000” emergency service.

Over the years, this led to a number of safety incidents. With no connectivity infrastructure, the national park was faced with the struggle of keeping their locals and visitors safe.

THE SOLUTION

With the safety of their visitors in mind, the national park required emergency connectivity for their isolated swimming spots and walking trails. Due to the remote location, they sought a satellite-based solution, to ensure an always-available connection.

Network Innovations performed an on-site visit and resolved to construct a bespoke always-on solution. Our engineering team successfully integrated an Inmarsat GSPS system with ruggedized analogue telephony components, creating a solution that was both effective and met the customer’s brief. This bespoke solution was retrofitted into the already existing telephone housing with a new stainless steel fascia, capable of offering critical voice communications, no matter how remote the environment.

When the telephone is lifted from its hook, it automatically dials out to the “000” service, immediately connecting the caller with an emergency operator who can arrange help.

Network Innovations built the solution from start-to-finish, providing the national park with the essential communication needed to save lives:

• Quick and reliable voice communication
• Ruggedized for remote and harsh conditions
• Initiate a call in seconds
• Provided a 24/7 lifeline
  

Since implementation of the emergency phone, several lives have been saved. The solution will continue to be a critical part of the national park’s approach in keeping their visitors connected.

Network Innovations was able to develop a solution within three weeks, increasing security and safety. The park authorities can operate with confidence knowing that if an emergency arose, visitors are equipped with a communications lifeline.