Dispatchers around the area are being recognized this week for their hard work in providing immediate assistance to those who call police for help.
A 911 Dispatcher, or Telecommunicator, is the first person you talk to when you call 911 to report an emergency day or night.
Dispatchers alert police, fire or EMS to respond to a reported incident or emergency. They are the calming voice when callers are panicked and they offer information to emergency responders in order to assist residents in need.
These unsung heroes are being honored this week as part of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
Dispatchers receive multiple hours of training to handle all types of emergencies. There are some medical instances where dispatchers can relay life-saving skills over the phone to help someone sustain life until emergency personnel can arrive at the scene.
National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is observed through Saturday, April 17.
