In this powerful collaborative episode of DAS Talk and the All Clear Podcast, hosts Peter from GAMMA and DAS University sit down once again with Deputy Fire Marshal Travis McGaha of Concord, NC. As our first-ever returning guest, Travis shares urgent, real-world insights into the critical role that Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES) play in protecting first responders inside modern buildings.

This episode is a must-watch for fire marshals, AHJs, DAS integrators, code officials, builders, and public safety professionals who want to better understand how communication systems impact tactical response—and how to build stronger partnerships between the industry and enforcement.

This episode is presented in collaboration with the All Clear Podcast, hosted by Concord Fire Department, focused on firefighter wellness, public safety education, and operational readiness.

Key Topics Covered:

• How ERCES systems directly impact first responder survivability

• The dangers of radio “dead zones” in warehouses, high-rises, and new developments

• Why code enforcement officers must understand their authority to require these systems

• Common issues with ERCES maintenance and testing

• Practical collaboration tips for integrators and AHJs

• Real-life case studies from the field in North Carolina

• How Concord Fire Department uses ERCES mapping to improve emergency response

• What every jurisdiction should know to ensure safe and code-compliant coverage

DAS University Live Summit – August 5–6 in Concord, NC This episode also highlights the upcoming DAS University Live Summit, a first-of-its-kind event designed to bring together AHJs, integrators, and public safety professionals for two days of high-impact training. https://dasuniversity.org/summit-Indu... AHJs attend for free. Breakfast and lunch provided both days.

About DAS Talk: DAS Talk is a podcast series by GAMMA Electronics and DAS University focused on raising awareness, sharing best practices, and building stronger bridges between code enforcement and the DAS integration industry.

About All Clear Podcast: Hosted by Concord Fire Department, the All Clear Podcast focuses on firefighter wellness, leadership, and safety in high-risk environments.

Learn more at www.allclearpodcast.com. If you care about life safety, communications, and the future of in-building emergency systems—this episode is for you.

In this episode of DAS Talk, hosts Philip Nicholas Juan and Gilbert Martinez have an in-depth conversation with Chris Cisco of Bearcom, a leading RF DAS engineer. Chris shares his powerful story of transitioning from military communications into the world of distributed antenna systems (DAS) and emergency responder communication enhancement systems (ERCES).

Throughout the discussion, Chris explains why strong in-building communication is absolutely critical for public safety, first responders, and everyday operations. He breaks down how his military background built the foundation for his approach to solving RF engineering challenges in civilian environments.

The episode highlights the urgent need to improve communication systems in schools, where many campuses still dangerously lack reliable radio and cellular coverage. Chris emphasizes how this gap poses major risks during emergencies and shares his experiences working with school districts to solve these problems.

Philip, Gilbert, and Chris also talk about the challenges faced by AHJs (Authorities Having Jurisdiction) in understanding and enforcing DAS requirements. Many AHJs are still learning about these systems themselves, which creates both opportunities and obstacles for the industry.

The conversation stresses the importance of community networking, ongoing education, and mentorship. Chris shares how he built his career largely by seeking out knowledge, forming the right connections, and committing to self-education when formal resources were limited.

This episode covers the real-world problems that DAS professionals encounter daily, from poor building assessments to improperly conducted grid tests. Chris also shares the critical role integrity and best practices must play in the future growth of the DAS industry.

If you are involved in DAS, RF engineering, public safety, or in-building communication, this episode is a must-watch. It delivers valuable insight into both the technical and human sides of the industry, while offering real advice on how we can make schools, hospitals, and public spaces safer for everyone.

Subscribe to DAS Talk for more important conversations about DAS, RF engineering, public safety communications, in-building signal systems, and industry leadership.

In this special episode of DAS Talk, we bring you Peter Wehretter’s powerful IWCE Conference presentation—where he spoke to a packed house about the critical need for enforcing in-building emergency radio coverage to save lives.

As Vice President & Co-founder of GAMMA Electronics and host of DASTALK.COM, Peter shares his 20+ years of RF component manufacturing experience to break down the urgent challenges first responders face when radio signals fail inside buildings.

🔊 In this episode, you’ll learn:

✅ How modern buildings create dead zones that block emergency communication

✅ The devastating consequences of poor in-building radio coverage in tragedies like Parkland & Uvalde

✅ What Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES) do to fix this issue

✅ How BDAs (Bi-Directional Amplifiers) & DAS solutions ensure first responders stay connected

✅ Why government enforcement of NFPA 1225, IFC 510, and other codes is inconsistent—and what needs to change

🔥 Key Stats That Will Shock You:

•60% of first responders report radio failures inside buildings during emergencies

• More than 70% of U.S. schools lack a dedicated ERCES system

• Less than 0.05% of school infrastructure budgets go toward emergency communication upgrades

🎧 Why You Should Listen:

If you work in public safety, building management, RF engineering, or emergency response, this episode is a must-listen. Learn what’s at stake and how enforcing in-building emergency radio coverage can save lives.

📢 Join the Conversation!

What are your thoughts on enforcing emergency radio coverage in buildings? DM us or tag us on social media to share your perspective!

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For more industry insights on DAS, in-building RF challenges, and public safety communication, make sure to follow DAS Talk and never miss an episode.