2026 Public Safety Trends Report

A new era of public safety has arrived – see how leading agencies are adapting now.

The world of public safety is evolving fast. Discover how police across the US and UK are adopting AI, next-generation cloud technology and more to strengthen response, collaboration, and public trust.

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About the Report

The 2026 Public Safety Trends Report offers a data-driven look at how public safety is advancing efficiency, resiliency, and trust.

To build a more comprehensive, global view Mark43 conducted two surveys:

  • United States: A nationwide online survey of public safety professionals, including law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs, and telecommunicators conducted in October 2025.
  • United Kingdom: A survey of police professionals, including constables, civilian staff and superintendents, gathered at national events across the UK in September and October 2025.

Together, the findings reveal challenges and opportunities shaping the next year of public safety.

Key Takeaways

From AI to interoperability, these five trends highlight how
forward-thinking agencies are preparing for 2026 and beyond:

Responsible AI adoption.
AI is already transforming public safety; however, the focus now is ensuring it remains human-centered, transparent, and accountable.
Cybersecurity as a foundation.
Agencies are re-evaluating every technology decision through a security lens, demanding platforms built to prevent, detect, and recover from threats.
Turning data into decisions.
From real-time visibility to funding justification, agencies are prioritizing clean, connected, and actionable data.
Modern tools for modern teams.
Leaders are investing in intuitive, mobile, cloud-based systems that ease workloads and help retain their people.
One connected platform.
Interoperability is no longer optional. Unified systems across police, fire, and EMS are powering faster, more coordinated response.
Mark43 - Turning Data into Decisions
Mark43 - Modern Tools for Modern Teams
Mark43 - One Connected Platform

Who Should Read This Report?

It’s designed for chiefs, commissioners, superintendents, directors, commanders, CIOs, IT and security professionals, and the next generation of decision-makers advancing technology and operations.

Discover how agencies and forces in the US and UK are using modern technology to improve outcomes, collaboration, and efficiency.

Who Should Read This Report?

It’s designed for chiefs, commissioners, superintendents, directors, commanders, CIOs, IT and security professionals, and the next generation of decision-makers advancing technology and operations.

Discover how agencies and forces in the US and UK are using modern technology to improve outcomes, collaboration, and efficiency.

Real Use Cases From Agencies Nationwide