911 Operators Get Honors

The Town of Mount Pleasant Police Department is highlighted the efforts of the unsung heroes of public safety during National Public Safety Communications Week April 8-14.

“Telecommunications specialists are the driving force behind our town’s emergency rescue services. They are the men and women who dispatch our police force, ambulances, and our firefighters. They may not be as visible as the men and women who arrive at the scene of emergencies, but they are just as important,” said Mayor Billy Swails. “We depend upon telecommunications staff to notify emergency personnel promptly, clearly, calmly and accurately. We depend upon them to keep our husbands, our wives, and our children calm during an emergency.”

“This year, specially trained dispatchers at the Mount Pleasant Police Department will answer approximately 85,000 emergency calls. Telecommunicators swing into action when someone dials 9-1-1 and needs help. As soon as they answer the phone, dispatchers begin a rapid and complex procedure to quickly deliver help to those who need it. These public safety personnel serve as the vital links within our cities and towns,” said Police Chief Harry Sewell.

The Mount Pleasant Fire Department commended town dispatchers for their continued professionalism. “The communications center is the heartbeat of the department. Dispatchers must have a basic knowledge of fire ground and EMS procedures. They are the first point of contact the public has with the Mount Pleasant Fire Department when reporting a fire or an emergency requiring assistance,” said Fire Chief Herb Williams “Their speed and accuracy help us identify and respond to the emergency expediently and efficiently.”

Communications Supervisor Jacqueline Miller saluted her colleagues. “Our telecommunications specialists must relay information to first responders promptly and accurately in stressful conditions. There is no margin for error,” she said.

Dispatcher positions are often used as stepping stones for aspiring community service officers and police officers, added Miller. For additional information on dispatching positions, contact the Mount Pleasant website at www.mppolice.com.