Why I Wear The Badge - Chapter 5: Public Safety Dispatcher

When you think of first responders, you probably picture paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), firefighters and police officers. But there’s a first responder behind the scenes who handles things before those folks get involved: the 9-1-1 dispatcher.

911 dispatchers are the first voice one hears when calling to report an emergency. Many dispatchers have experienced the whole gamut, from the unending slew of dropped cellphone calls to hearing domestic or sexual abuse as it occurs. And yet, they return the next day, fueled by their desire to aid the community.

“With each new crisis, dispatchers prove to be an indispensable link between our officers, the public, and vital support services,” CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow said. “Without their commitment, devotion, and hard work, countless numbers of lives and property would be in jeopardy. The work of these highly trained women and men is so much more than just a job.”

[gladiator]

Integrity, Judgement, Loyalty, Courtesy, Honor, Knowledge and character.

[AP-kkys]

Happy National Public Safety Telecommunicators week.

[Train]

I live in Arroyo Grande, nice to see a local dispatcher.

[poohbearmom]

Thanks for sharing your story about being a dispatcher you are awesome 👏👏💕

[Mhmyep]

Iv seen a lot of stuff like accident I’m my life wen doing media but I don’t think I have felt anything like that one call you took wow that’s sad