DISPATCHERS: Unsung heroes

In 1991, Congress proclaimed the second full week in April to be National Public Safety Telecommunications Week to recognize the importance of those exceptional individuals who coordinate the efforts of Police, Fire and EMS workers.

Telecommunications Operators (Emergency Communications Officers or ECOs) are the unsung heroes of public safety. They operate 24/7.

They are a vital link between the caller and the first responders. These are the people whose first voice is heard and collect the initial information from the caller(s) and pass it along to the first responders in the field. Often, they can give immediate lifesaving directions to the caller during medical emergencies or can be the calming voice to reassure the victim of a violent crime that help is on the way. All our Emergency Communications Officers undergo vigorous training and background checks and must maintain certifications in the latest communication technology and procedures.

Here at the City of Post Falls, we are extremely proud of our police department and the ECOs who provide services to our citizens and to the citizens of Rathdrum. It is a tireless job that is rated one of the most stressful jobs in America.

Please join us in taking a moment to honor and thank these employees for their commitment, service and sacrifice to the safety of our citizens and community.

“Between the thin blue line and the thin red line lies the thinnest gold line. The thin gold line represents those who are rarely seen, but mostly heard. The calm voice in the dark night. Dispatchers… The golden glue that holds it all together.” — Chief of Police Greg McLean

MAYOR RONALD JACOBSON and CITY ADMINISTRATOR SHELLY ENDERUD

City of Post Falls