annual National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

As A Public Safety Dispatcher, one of my pet peeves is the general lack of recognition of the work we (dispatchers) do. Too many field personnel take dispatchers for granted - until we're needed. When the need for help is put out, who gets the assistance to you? Who digs for information and finds that driver's license, address, or background information? Most likely  it is the dispatcher. Who obtains the descriptions during the call that allows you to ultimately catch the bad guy? Who calms the panicked caller trapped in the wrecked car or burning building until help arrives?


Do I need to say it?





We provide directions, instructions, and advice to the public. We guide rookies in doing their job...help them when they aren't sure what to do (face it folks, how many times have you called us instead of a field supervisor to ask for advice?). We're the last voice too many people hear before they draw their last breath.


We carry that burden and keep doing our jobs, just like you do.


I bet you don't know it, but we shed tears - only ours are done when it's quiet, in the privacy of the rare bathroom breaks. The position isn't easy. We juggle multiple tasks at the same time. We try to keep our bad days, family issues, and irritation at being screamed at by callers off the radio channel.


Sometimes we fail, but mostly we do a good job. We really do want to do our best and help you succeed at yours.


Next month is the annual Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 10-16).  The idea was initiated by Contra Costa County dispatcher Patricia Anderson in 1981.


The idea was eventually championed by the Associated Public Safety Communications Officials, Inc. (APCO). Congress approved the resolution upon the urging of  Representative Edward J. Markey (D) of Massachusetts (Resolution 284) and the first proclamation was signed by President Bush and subsequent versions by President Clinton.


This year, celebrate your dispatchers!


How do the men and women of your communications center make your job easier?


Say thanks. Let your dispatchers know how much you appreciate their help. When you solve a case, give the communications center personnel credit. Saying thanks for a job well done is easy and it means the world when it is sincere.


So next time you get irritated at the umpteenth status check or question, remember we're only asking to make certain you are okay and we have the facts right.


It might just save you life.


A shift where everyone goes home is our goal.


Stay safe out there!