I am writing to alert you to a critical public safety issue affecting residents of Central Illinois - the lack of high-quality wireless coverage in rural areas.

As our communities gear up for more severe, unpredictable and oftentimes dangerous winter weather, it is critical that we are able to count on a strong, reliable cell phone signal as it is often a primary means of communication during emergency situations.

As a law enforcement official, I can testify that the lack of high-quality wireless coverage in rural areas is a critical public safety concern - in Minier, Armington and in communities around the country.

First responders, firefighters and police officers all depend on reliable coverage to handle emergency situations ranging from natural disasters, car accidents and reports of domestic violence.

In many cases, reliable wireless service can literally mean the difference between life and death, especially at this time of year when severe weather can cause hazardous road conditions and widespread power outages.

Despite this reality, the Federal Communications Commission recently signaled its intent to cap the Universal Service Fund "very soon" - and could do so any day.

Illinois' rural wireless carriers estimate that a cap would cost the state about $10 million per year, jeopardizing the construction of dozens of new rural sites. This would compromise public safety resources and further put us at a disadvantage during winter storms.

To this end, I support Connecting Rural America, an effort aimed to ensure that rural residents across the country have equal access to a strong, reliable wireless network. I urge you to visit its Web site to learn more.

Daryl Weseloh

Minier

The writer is Minier-Armington chief of police.