This week is National Public Safety Telecommunications Week
By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Wednesday, April 14th, 2021 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories
BAKER COUNTY – Each year, the second week of April is National Public Safety Telecommunications Week.
The Baker County Sheriff’s Office says that, “during this time, we want to honor and thank all of the dispatchers who dedicate their lives to serving the public.
Dispatchers are truly the behind-the-scenes stars of law enforcement and EMS. You may never see them, but their voice is the first one you hear when you dial 911. They are trained and prepared for the unexpected and unimaginable and in many instances, can make the difference between life and death. These dedicated professionals work 24/7, weekends, holidays, and often sacrifice family events.
We recognize your commitment to this profession and the impact that you have on those you serve. The Baker County Sheriff’s Office is fortunate to have you on our team.”
The Oregon Office of Emergency Management issued a press release this week as follows:
“In 2020, 9-1-1 telecommunication professionals in Oregon answered approximately 2-million emergency calls for law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services to protect the lives and property of Oregonians. Since early in 2020, these essential frontline workers have been busier than ever responding to the pandemic, floods, historic wildfires and most recently a devastating winter storm.
Oregon Governor Kate Brown has issued a state proclamation to acknowledge these devoted professionals across the state who take emergency calls and/or dispatch appropriate police, fire and medical services to emergency locations. Each second week of April, this year April 11-17, public safety organizations in the U.S. and Canada recognize the crucial role of telecommunicators.
“When an emergency occurs, 9-1-1 operators are the unsung heroes who serve as the first point of contact in situations where seconds can save lives,” State 9-1-1 Program Section Manager Frank Kuchta said. “This week provides a chance to show these very important people some well-deserved gratitude.”
9-1-1 operators are a vital element of emergency services systems. The critical functions performed by professional telecommunicators also supports local, tribal, state and federal government agencies in the fields of emergency management, highway safety, search and rescue, and more.
“When we look at the professionalism and selfless service that our 9-1-1 operators exude, it is easy to see why this week worth celebrating,” said Kuchta.
The 9-1-1 program in Oregon was established by the 1981 Oregon Legislature, and is managed by the Oregon Office of Emergency Management.”
