Security Forces members use iPads on duty

by Senior Airman Tristin English
375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

7/30/2014 - SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Thin and lightweight makes it easy to carry around in a backpack or a large purse. Its users can pull it out just about anywhere to use to it for Skype, to play games, Facebook or watch random cat videos on the internet. Those are just some of the things the iPad is used for. More recently at Scott Air Force Base iPads are being used by the 375th Security Force Squadron.

"The forms of communication we were using were outdated," said Tech. Sgt. Stacy Trucott, 375th SFS integrated project team lead. "We used to use a grease pen and map to share information to first responders in the field. The new technology allows the members in the Base Defense Operations Center to plot on a digital map and instantaneously send it to the on-duty flight chief and incident commander."

The Air Force Security Forces Center implemented and trained the 375th SFS on how to use iPads in parked vehicles and updated map capabilities on AtHoc.

Staff Sgt. Kolin Jones, 375th SFS operations support, said "The goal of using iPads is to streamline the emergency management process. It helps when everyone is on the same page--the fire department, security forces, medical and other emergency management workers. It also gives you a real-time sense of where all responders need to be."

The 375th SFS tested the use of iPads during an exercise July 24. According to Trucott, since the iPad testing at Scott was successful, the Air Force Office of Technology plans to observe and collect data from responders who used the iPads. The information compiled will contribute to an Air Force headquarters overall decision about SF members using iPads in the future.

"Change is a thing we are challenged with all the time," said Trucott. "So to introduce this new technology to SF members who are used to doing it the old fashion way is a challenge. The trick is to not jump right in, but to slowly make a transition into the new technology."

The Air Force is constantly evolving and looking for ways to improve operations. The 375th SFS is using technology to expand their capabilities and perform more efficiently. Scott was the first base to use and test iPads for security forces.

"Scott AFB is leading the way at changing the way the emergency community does response Air Force-wide," said Trucott. "We are making a big impact on the Air Force as a whole."