Responders
First

Responders First offers an optional camera system program to participating fire and police stations. All camera systems deployed through this program are governed by the following policy.

Program Pause

Camera system deployments at fire stations are currently paused pending an all-clear from LAFD command staff. We are not accepting new camera installation requests for fire stations at this time. Police facility deployments continue on a case-by-case basis.

Privacy Commitment

At no time does Responders First have access to camera footage or live feeds once a system is installed. All camera systems are configured for on-site local storage only. No footage is transmitted to Responders First, FOWLA, Westside Coalition, or any third party. Cameras are installed exclusively for the benefit and security of the station and its personnel.

Installation Requirements

Camera installation requests must be submitted by a Captain or higher. All systems use local storage only; no cloud streaming, no remote access, no external monitoring. Equipment is provided as an in-kind grant and becomes the property of the station upon installation.

Questions

For questions about the camera program, contact grants@respondersfirst.la.

Effective Date: October 2, 2026

Welcome to Responders First ("Responders First," "we," "us," or "our"), a program of Westside Coalition, a 501(c)(4) organization, fiscally sponsored by Friends of West L.A. ("FOWLA"), a 501(c)(3). Contributions intended to be tax-deductible are made through FOWLA.

Recognizing that the privacy, safety, and dignity of first responders and their stations are central to the trust they place in us, Responders First is committed to delivering grants, connectivity, and installed systems in a manner that respects and protects that privacy. This Privacy Policy reflects that commitment and describes how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard information.

This Privacy Policy covers two distinct things, and we keep them separate throughout because they are very different: (1) the information we collect through our website at www.respondersfirst.la (the "Site"), where stations and personnel submit grant and connectivity requests and where members of the public make contributions; and (2) how we handle data in connection with the equipment and network systems we install and manage at facilities, including Starlink satellite terminals, Mesh Wi-Fi, and Nanobeam network hardware, and, where applicable, camera systems. What we collect through the Site is ordinary contact, application, and donation information. What we can access through installed equipment is deliberately limited to technical health and status, as described below.

This policy applies to everyone who interacts with us, including: (1) stations, command staff, and personnel who request grants or connectivity; and (2) members of the public who donate to support the program or specific stations. Where a section applies to a particular group, we say so.

Camera systems are addressed in our separate Camera System Policy. As of the effective date of this policy, Responders First is not deploying camera systems at fire stations, pending approval by LAFD command staff.

Information We Collect Through the Site

Information You Provide

• Grant Application Information: To determine eligibility and manage participation, we collect information submitted by the Person in Charge or command staff (such as name, rank, email, and phone), along with station-specific details such as station number/division and address.
• Connectivity (Starlink) Request Information: When you request a Starlink or Mesh Wi-Fi system, we collect the details you provide on the request form, such as the division, unit, or vessel, a point of contact, and installation needs.
• System Credentials (Optional): For systems where we provide ongoing management or technical support (including Mesh Wi-Fi, Starlink, Nanobeam, and, where applicable, camera systems), we may, at the station’s request, securely retain administrative usernames and passwords solely to provide that support.
• Consent and Preference Data: We record your preferences about future program communications and your agreement to program terms, such as self-installation responsibility and this Privacy Policy.
• Communications: When you contact us, we collect the information you choose to provide, including your name and anything included in your message.
• Donor Information (Members of the Public): If you make a contribution to support one or more stations, specific items, or the program generally, we collect the information needed to process and acknowledge your gift, such as your name, email, contact and billing information, the amount, and any station(s) or item(s) you choose to support. Full payment card details are handled by our third-party payment processors and are not stored by us. Donor information is treated as described in the "Donations and Donor Privacy" section below.

Information Collected Automatically on the Site

Our grant and connectivity request forms are hosted through third-party form and donation providers (for example, Google Forms for requests and Zeffy, PayPal, or Venmo for donations and reimbursements). When you use those tools, your information is processed by those providers under their own terms and privacy policies, which we do not control. In addition, like most websites, our Site and our hosting and analytics providers may automatically collect standard technical data (such as IP address, browser type, and pages visited) and may use cookies for core functionality and analytics. This Site-level technical data is separate from, and unrelated to, the installed network equipment described below.

Donations and Donor Privacy

Members of the public can contribute to Responders First, either to the program generally, or directed to one or more specific stations or specific items. Contributions are made through our fiscal sponsor, Friends of West L.A. (FOWLA), a 501(c)(3). We handle donor information with the same privacy-first approach that governs the rest of this policy.

• Private by default: We keep donor information private. We do not publish your identity as a donor, make your contribution public, sell your information, or share it for marketing, unless you authorize us to do so.
• Attribution is opt-in: If you would like your gift attributed or publicly recognized (for example, associated with a particular station), we will do so only with your explicit authorization and only to the extent you specify. You can decline attribution and remain anonymous.
• Directed and general gifts: You may direct your contribution to one or more specific stations or items, or give to the program generally. We use directed gifts consistent with your designation; if a designated need has already been met, we may apply your gift to a comparable need and will aim to make that clear at the time of giving.
• Future communications are opt-in: We will give you the opportunity to opt in to future updates and communications. If you do not opt in, we use your information only to process and acknowledge your gift and to meet legal and tax requirements. Every email we send includes an unsubscribe link.
• Tax-deductible receipts: Contributions are processed through our fiscal sponsor, Friends of West L.A. (FOWLA), a 501(c)(3), which issues receipts and meets recordkeeping and tax requirements.
• Retention of contribution data: We retain contribution and donation records for as long as required by law, including applicable tax and recordkeeping requirements, even after a request to delete other information. See "Retention of Information" below.
• Payment processing: Contributions are handled through third-party payment providers (such as Zeffy, PayPal, or Venmo). Your payment is subject to those providers’ terms and privacy policies, and we do not receive or store your full payment card number.

What We Do Not Collect Through Installed Network Equipment

With respect to the Starlink, Mesh Wi-Fi, and Nanobeam equipment we install and manage, we do not collect (and in most cases have no technical ability to collect) the following:

• We do not inspect or retain the content of traffic on these networks, and we do not monitor individuals' browsing. As the network's administrator, our management tools can see connection metadata (the destinations a device connects to, the ports it uses, and how much data it moves), which we consult only for network health and security, never to profile individual users or their activity.
• We do not perform deep packet inspection and cannot access the contents of anything sent through the Starlink connection or the Mesh nodes.
• We cannot access the personal devices on the network (such as phones, tablets, or computers) or the data on them.

To be clear about device visibility: because we administer the network, our management dashboard shows the devices currently connected to it, including any names that stations or users have assigned to those devices (for example, "Capt. Smith’s iPhone"), the device type, and signal strength. This is standard network-management information; we do not use it to track individuals, and it does not reveal browsing activity, application usage, or the contents of any communication. A station may rename or anonymize its devices at any time if it prefers.

What We Can and Cannot See on the Network

To be as clear as possible, here is exactly what our network-management and satellite tools do and do not reveal:

What we can see (technical health, status, and connected-device information):

• Whether the Starlink system is online, whether the dish is obstructed or misaligned, and its account and subscription status;
• Total data volume and internet activity (for example, total gigabytes uploaded and downloaded), throughput, latency, ping success, power draw, and outage events;
• The station’s public IP address assigned by the satellite carrier;
• In the network topology, the devices connected to the network, including any device names assigned to them, the device type, signal strength, which access point each device uses, how much data each device has moved, and, in the connection/flow view, the destinations a device is currently connecting to (which we consult only for network health and security); and
• Wired and wireless link details, such as connection speed.

What we cannot see:

• The content of what is sent or received, or any application-layer analysis of it. We do not enable UniFi "Traffic Identification," so content and application analysis is turned off and returns no data;
• The contents of anything sent through the Starlink connection or the Mesh nodes; and
• The data stored on any device on the network.

With retained system credentials, and only upon a station’s request, we may provide remote assistance, troubleshoot connectivity, or reconfigure the Starlink or Mesh network. None of this gives us access to traffic content or browsing activity.

Third-Party Devices, Software, and Networks We Do Not Control

Responders First does not own, operate, or control the personal or third-party devices, applications, operating systems, or other software that stations, personnel, departments, or others may connect to or run over the networks we provide. We have no ability or means to know what data any such device or software may itself collect, store, transmit, or disclose (including data those devices, applications, or services send to their own vendors or service providers), and we undertake no obligation to monitor, inspect, investigate, or report on the behavior of any such device or software.

The commitments in this policy describe how we configure and operate the equipment we install and administer; they are not a representation about the behavior of any other device, application, service, or network. Internet service over the Starlink system is delivered by a third-party satellite carrier, whose handling of data is governed by its own terms and privacy policy, which we do not control.

Starlink and Network Installations

Responders First installs and maintains connectivity equipment at eligible facilities, including Gen3 Starlink terminals (or Starlink Mini units for mobile use), Mesh Wi-Fi, and Nanobeam hardware. This connectivity is firefighter house Wi-Fi, not City Wi-Fi.

• Ownership and control: The connectivity equipment we install is owned by Responders First, not by the station, the department, or the City. Because we retain ownership and administrative control, it is Responders First, not the station or the City, that configures and enforces the privacy practices described here.
• Costs: Responders First purchases and owns the dish and pays the monthly service charge for unlimited bandwidth; stations reimburse Responders First for the actual service cost with no markup, via the payment or fundraising options we make available. We do not derive personal advertising or marketing data from this arrangement.
• City systems: We will not touch City Wi-Fi or configure automatic failover to or from City networks without express written authorization from LAFD command staff at Bureau Chief or higher. This policy does not apply to any equipment, network, or device owned or operated by the City of Los Angeles, LAFD, or any other party.
• Scope of monitoring: Our management of this equipment covers hardware health and connectivity status only, as described in the sections above. We do not identify individual users or their activity through this equipment.

Legal Process

If we receive a subpoena, warrant, or other legal demand for data related to the network equipment covered by this policy, we will respond truthfully. Because we do not inspect or retain traffic content and do not keep routine logs of individuals' browsing, in most cases we hold no such records. Where limited connection-metadata records exist (for example, from network-security diagnostics), we will disclose only what is legally required. Where a demand relates to grant-application or account information we do hold, we will disclose only what is legally required. Where we have a governing agreement that calls for advance notice to a partner (such as a labor organization under a memorandum of understanding), we will provide that notice as promptly as legally permitted before producing records, unless prohibited by law or court order.

Verification and Transparency

We believe privacy commitments should be verifiable. Upon reasonable request by a station, a department, or an authorized representative (such as a recognized labor organization, subject to a mutual confidentiality understanding), we will make available documentation or a technical walkthrough sufficient to confirm that installed equipment is configured consistent with this policy. This may include configuration exports, dashboard access, or an in-person review at a mutually convenient time.

How We Use the Information We Do Collect

• Grant management and fulfillment: To determine eligibility, verify command-staff identity, process requests, and coordinate equipment delivery and installation.
• Technical support: To provide remote assistance, troubleshooting, or device reconfiguration using retained credentials, only upon a station’s request.
• Notifications: To send text or email updates about grant status, equipment delivery, and program matters, and to respond to inquiries.
• Donations: To process, acknowledge, and (where you designate) direct contributions; to issue tax receipts through FOWLA; and, only if you opt in, to send you future updates.
• Site security and fraud prevention: To protect against fraudulent grant requests and unauthorized access.
• Legal compliance: To comply with applicable laws, court orders, and governmental requests.

Sharing of Your Information

We share personal information only as necessary to operate the program, fulfill requests, or comply with the law. We do not sell personal information, and we do not share it for third-party advertising or marketing.

• Service providers and partners: We use trusted third-party providers (such as form, donation, payment, hosting, and connectivity vendors) that access only the information needed to perform their functions and are expected to protect it. FOWLA processes tax-deductible donations and audit-ready purchasing on the program’s behalf.
• Legal compliance and safety: We may disclose information where required by law or to protect the rights and safety of our program, first responders, or others.
• Aggregate and non-identifiable information: We may share aggregated or anonymized data that cannot identify individuals (for example, "65 stations served") to evaluate and report on program effectiveness.
• Donor attribution (opt-in only): We share or publish a donor’s identity or contribution only with that donor’s explicit authorization (for example, a requested attribution or public recognition).

Retention of Information

• Grant data: Retained to support distribution, warranty and technical support, feedback, and reporting for the program’s active period.
• System credentials: Retained only while we are actively providing hardware support, and deleted when that support ends or upon request.
• Network telemetry: Any operational data retained for legitimate network administration is kept only as long as necessary for that purpose, and is not used for personnel, disciplinary, or evaluative purposes.
• Contribution and donation data: We retain contribution and donation records for as long as required by law, including applicable tax, receipting, and recordkeeping requirements. These records may be retained even after a request to delete other personal information.
• Deletion: Upon request, and subject to any applicable legal retention requirements, personal information will be securely deleted or anonymized.

Your Rights and Choices

• Access and correction: You may request access to, and correction of, the personal information we hold about you.
• Deletion: You may request deletion of your personal information, subject to legal obligations.
• Cookies: You can manage cookies through your browser settings, though disabling them may limit Site functionality, including the grant application portal.
• Do Not Track: Our Site does not currently respond to browser "Do Not Track" signals.
• Unsubscribe: Each email we send includes an unsubscribe link; you can re-subscribe at any time.

To exercise any of these rights, contact us at info@respondersfirst.la. We may verify your identity before processing certain requests.

Security of Your Information

• Encryption: Sensitive information is encrypted where appropriate.
• Access control: Access to personal information and any retained administrative credentials is restricted to authorized personnel who need it to perform specific functions.
• Regular review: We routinely review and update our security protocols.

No online platform can guarantee absolute security. While we strive to protect your information, transmission over the internet is not completely secure, and we cannot guarantee complete protection.

Cookies and Tracking Technology

Our Site uses cookies and similar technologies to enable functionality and analyze usage. You may adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies, though certain features may be affected. We use essential cookies (for core functionality such as secure form submission), analytics cookies (to understand and improve Site usage), and preference cookies (to remember your settings).

Third-Party Links

This Privacy Policy applies only to www.respondersfirst.la. We do not control, endorse, or assume responsibility for the privacy practices or content of external sites, including the third-party form, donation, and payment tools linked from our Site. We encourage you to review their privacy policies.

Children’s Privacy

Our services are intended for individuals over the age of 18. We do not knowingly collect information from children under 18. If we learn that we have inadvertently collected such information, we will take steps to delete it.

International Data Transfers

Responders First is based in the United States. By accessing our Site and providing information, you consent to the transfer, processing, and storage of your information in the United States.

Your California Privacy Rights

Under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), California residents have rights including the right to know what personal information is collected, used, or shared; the right to correct inaccurate information; the right to delete personal information (subject to exceptions); and the right to opt out of the sale or sharing of personal information. Responders First does not sell personal information. To exercise these rights, contact us at info@respondersfirst.la; we will respond to verifiable requests within the timeframe required by law.

Camera Systems

Where camera systems are provided, they are governed by our separate Camera System Policy. In summary, video is stored locally only with no automatic cloud transmission, footage is automatically overwritten on a short rolling window (24 to 48 hours), viewing occurs only from a dedicated on-site control panel with no external or remote access, internal audio is disabled, motion alerts are text-only with no image sent off-site, privacy masking blocks public streets and neighboring properties, and cameras are limited to exterior perimeters, never living quarters, dorms, gyms, or recreational areas. As noted above, camera deployments are currently paused pending command-staff approval.

Updates to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices, functionality, or legal obligations. Changes are posted on this page with an updated effective date. Your continued use of the Site following any changes indicates acceptance of the revised policy. Where the terms of a signed agreement (such as a memorandum of understanding) are more protective of privacy than this policy, those more protective terms control for the equipment they cover.

Contact Us

If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or your personal information, please contact us:

Responders First, a program of Westside Coalition
Email: info@respondersfirst.la  |  Grants: grants@respondersfirst.la
www.respondersfirst.la