WEBVTT

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In an emergency,

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when a 9-1-1 call is made,

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emergency dispatchers keep a cool head

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to ensure that callers

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get the help they need,

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while providing a reassuring presence

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over the phone.

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Police, fire, and ambulance dispatchers

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answer emergency and nonemergency calls.

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They quickly determine the type of emergency,

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its location and the response needed,

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then relay that information

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to the appropriate emergency responders.

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They also give medical instructions or advice

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on how to stay safe until help arrives.

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Dispatchers monitor and track

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emergency vehicles,

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coordinate responses with

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other local communication centers,

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and keep detailed records of calls.

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Dispatch work is stressful.

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Dispatchers often work long shifts

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taking many calls…

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under pressure to respond quickly and calmly…

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sometimes handling life-threatening situations.

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Most work for local government,

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in centers called public safety answering points.

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Some work in law enforcement agencies

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and fire departments.

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Shifts include weekends, evenings and holidays.

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Dispatchers generally need

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a high school diploma,

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U.S. citizenship, and dispatcher certification.

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Candidates may be required

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to pass a typing test,

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background check, drug tests, lie detector,

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and hearing and vision tests.

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Spanish language skills are a plus.