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Rescue 42, a manufacturer of emergency-response equipment, has become a well-known name among first responders worldwide. Their vehicle-support struts, known as “42s,” have become a staple in the industry. However, Rescue 42 is much more than just its vehicle-support struts.

Rescue 42 also has a division dedicated to portable telecommunications units that act as cellular towers during emergencies when phone and web services go down. These units were employed during the Camp Fire in Butte County and were airlifted to Maui to respond to the Lahaina fires.

Despite its inconspicuous headquarters in Chico, California, Rescue 42 brings in million in revenue each year. The company serves major telecom companies and has a customer base that includes government agencies, hospitals, and schools.

Rescue 42’s chief operating officer, Amy Velazquez, describes the company as “a little secret” that operates under the radar but plays a significant role in Chico’s manufacturing scene.

Rescue 42 was founded in 1995 by CEO Tim O’Connell and his wife Celia. O’Connell’s background as a nuclear engineer in the U.S. Navy played a significant role in shaping the company’s products. Their line of tools includes vehicle extrication and stabilization tools, as well as deployable units.

The deployable units, known as Compact Rapid Deployables (CRDs), come in different sizes, including a miniCRD that connects to the Starlink network of low-orbit satellites. These units function as mobile cell towers and can sustain their own power for up to 10 days.

Rescue 42 has contracts with AT&T to supply CRDs compatible with FirstNet cellular service, prioritizing communications for public safety and infrastructure personnel. They are also working with six other countries to implement similar systems for their first responders.

The company is continuously adapting to changes in satellite technology. O’Connell mentioned that they are currently working on version 3.0 of the CRD, which will incorporate the Starlink system along with the Viasat system currently used.

Rescue 42’s portable telecom units are not only used during disasters but also for large-scale events where cell capacity may be overwhelmed. For example, Rescue 42’s units are employed during Burning Man to provide critical communications support.

Tim O’Connell, alongside his dedication to Rescue 42, continues to serve as a volunteer firefighter in Butte County, where he has been volunteering for 40 years.

Rescue 42’s growth shows no signs of slowing down, especially with the increasing reliance on satellite telecommunications. The company expects to continue expanding and working with more carriers in the future.

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