FCC Ramps up for Gustav Response

The Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (PSHSB) of the Federal Communications Commission (Commission) has announced the activation of the Disaster Information Reporting System (DIRS) in response to Hurricane Gustav. DIRS is a voluntary, efficient, web-based system that communications providers, including wireless, wireline, broadcast, and cable providers, can use to report communications infrastructure status and situational awareness information during times of crises. The FCC also reminded communications providers of contact information to obtain emergency Special Temporary Authorizations (STAs).