Miri Microsystems and Hughes provide emergency communications services to EPA

On August 10, 2005, a chemical plant in Romulus, Michigan that specializes in fuel blending, chemical recycling, and recoverable petroleum products, exploded in a fiery blast. Three hundred foot high flames lit up the night sky as the majority of the plant was engulfed. Luckily, no major injuries were reported. However, thousands of local residents within half a mile of the plant had to evacuate the area as a thin layer of dust covered nearby houses, businesses, and streets, posing a potentially toxic and dangerous threat. These displaced residents could not return home until the air was deemed safe to breathe.

“After having the mobile command post with Internet access at the fire/explosion in Romulus this week, I don't know how we can do our jobs without it.”

Emergency response
The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) response to the explosion was to assess the environmental impact of the blast and to determine whether or not the resulting fumes and dust were toxic. High-speed Internet access was crucial in EPA’s emergency response to monitor the air quality and ensure the safety of local residents. However, traditional land lines were inadequate to serve the needs of their mobile command vehicle. They needed the capability to move around the town and set up their high-speed Internet connection quickly when they stopped.

That’s where Tony Miri, owner of Miri Microsystems, LLC and a Hughes dealer, became a crucial part of the effort.

Hughes broadband satellite access to the rescue
Miri outfitted the EPA’s mobile command vehicle with Hughes’ transportable satellite broadband equipment and high-speed Internet access. The Hughes service was an invaluable tool, which allowed the EPA to complete their necessary tests. As EPA’s Jon Gulch relayed to Miri afterwards, “Thanks for all of your help on this. After having the mobile command post with satellite Internet access at the fire/explosion in Romulus this week, I don’t know how we can do our jobs without it.” The EPA also modified other satellite terminals in order to make them transportable. These units were used in Louisiana by the EPA for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.

Satellite access available everywhere
Satellite broadband is unique because the service is available continent-wide. Unlike terrestrial options, it does not rely on wires or phone lines to provide a reliable, always-on Internet connection. Regardless of geography, the only requirement is for the antenna to have a clear view of the southern sky.
“Hughes provides the equipment and service needed to truly help the emergency workers I deal with on a regular basis,” said Miri. “I partner with Hughes because they provide a reliable and effective service that my customers can count on.”

Focus on Rescue Workers
Miri continues to focus on emergency response, providing the Troy, Michigan Fire Department with a transportable satellite broadband unit, and it sent employees to Louisiana to contribute to the EPA’s continuing efforts with Hurricane Katrina relief.
“Hughes has been integral in my efforts to assist emergency responders,” said Miri. “With the satellite broadband service they provide, a major hurdle faced by these brave men and women is resolved.”