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Cyberterrorism

Public Safety Agencies Embrace Emerging Technologies, Prioritize Network Reliability

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the Verizon Frontline Public Safety Communications Survey reveals, nearly 70% of first responders believe that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be a top priority or important to the future of public safety. This shift towards embracing technology is evident in the 48% of respondents who expect to use drones or robots on a daily basis within the next five years. Furthermore, 67% of public safety agencies have implemented cybersecurity protections in the past year, highlighting a proactive approach to safeguarding critical infrastructure and data.

Key Takeaways:

  • 71% of respondents believe AI will be a top priority or important to the future of public safety, with 46% anticipating daily use of AI solutions within the next five years.
  • Despite current daily usage by only 15% of respondents, 48% expect to integrate drones or robots into their daily operations within the next five years.
  • A significant 13-point year-over-year surge in AI interest, with nearly half of respondents planning to integrate AI into their daily operations within five years.
  • 67% of public safety agencies have implemented new cybersecurity protections into their operations within the last year, demonstrating a proactive approach to safeguarding critical infrastructure and data.
  • A reliable and resilient network is the most critical feature for both day-to-day and emergency response communications, with 78% of first responders reporting that access to a reliable and resilient network has resulted in better communications in the field.

Statistics:

  • 71% of respondents believe AI will be a top priority or important to the future of public safety.
  • 46% of respondents anticipate daily use of AI solutions within the next five years.
  • 48% expect to use drones or robots on a daily basis within the next five years.
  • 67% of public safety agencies have implemented new cybersecurity protections into their operations within the last year.
  • 78% of first responders report that access to a reliable and resilient network has resulted in better communications in the field.

Sources:

  • Verizon Frontline Public Safety Communications Survey, 2025
  • Lexipol (research partner)
  • IDC Research VP, Worldwide Public Safety, Alison Brooks
  • Verizon Communications Inc. (press release)

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