Channels

Just like a radio, WFTAK uses channels to filter information. WFTAK provides users the ability to filter pertinent traffic across multiple channels, simultaneously, while having the ability to view it in a map with the user’s location in relation to adjoining resources and incident features. Not all channels can share or receive a WFTAK users’ location. Some channels are specific to receiving incident features or non-WFTAK device locations. Within location service channels, WFTAK users can send messages to other connected users within the channel. If someone has multiple channels turned on, the user will be able to choose which channel and WFTAK responder he and/or she wishes to send their messages, pictures, data files, map locations, etc. to.

New WFTAK users are automatically assigned to their respective Agency (FS, BLM, FWS, NPS, or BIA), Unit, Dispatch, and Geographic Area Coordination Center (GACC) channels. Each GACC has a shared interagency channel to support initial attack, Type 4, and Type 5 fires. Additional channels may be added to a GACC as needed.

The WFTAK architecture utilizes the Integrated Reporting of Wildland Fire Information (IRWIN), which is linked to the Incident Resource Ordering Capability (IROC). These two integrations allow WFTAK to automatically create incidents, track resource status, and provide WFTAK users with incident channels and information as soon as they are ordered to an incident. When an incident’s complexity reaches a Type 3, 2 or 1 fire, WFTAK creates a new incident within TAK and populates it with pre-set channels and WFTAK account users assigned to that incident. Fires that are Type 4 and 5 may also have incidents with associated channels manually created.

Depending on the responder type selections on sign-up, users are placed in standard incident channels and may be manually added to others if requested. Rx fires can also be created, and users can be added automatically via IROC or manually by scanning an incident specific QR code.