Whether you call them dispatchers, communications officers or 911 operators, the fact remains that police and fire personnel would be lost without them. April 10-16, 2016 is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. This week is not only a time for public safety personnel to drop by the 911 center and say thank you, but a time for everyone to take a minute to appreciate how complex of a job our communications officers have and the important role they play in keeping everyone safe.
Decatur communications officers duties include answering 911 and non-emergency calls, dispatching police and fire to calls for service and monitoring their radio traffic for requests and issues, operating and monitoring the NCIC/GCIC database from everything to driver’s license and warrant checks to stolen vehicles and all while assisting anyone that comes to the front window of the police department with a variety of questions or requests.
Our communications officers deal with the same stressors that the rest of public safety personnel deal with, but while tethered to a console. They grow to know our voices by heart and are along for the ride whether we are rushing to a critical call or fighting a person, a fire or boredom during long winter night shifts. They are behind the scenes, often invisible, but a lifeline to our community members, police officers and firefighters. Please take a moment to send a quick note to jennifer.ross@decaturga.com to thank our communications officers this week. We will be putting all of your responses together to share with all communications staff.
While attending the Citizens’ Police Academy, I had the opportunity to observe these officers at work. They handle whatever comes in with such a professional and caring attitude. They are an invaluable part of making our lives in Decatur safer, but are often unsung heroes. Thank you so much for all that you do.
Thank you communications officers! I have called you countless times and you’ve always been calm and responsive. I feel at peace knowing I can count on you all! I’m so fortunate to live in Decatur & have staff like you keeping my family safe!
We couldn’t do our jobs without them. They save lives and prevent crime and accidents everyday and get .little recognition. Words cannot express my gratitude towards them.
Thank you for serving our Decatur community… and for being calm and professional during the stressful, unexpected happenings in our lives. You deserve more than words of thanks… here’s wishing chocolate, flowers, and mani/pedis for you!
While attending CAPS training I had the opportunity to see Communications Officers in action. They are well equipped and very competent. I certainly appreciate their long hours of service and commitment to ensuring the safety of Decatur residents. Thank you very much!