In an emergency,
when a 9-1-1 call is made,
emergency dispatchers keep a cool head
to ensure that callers
get the help they need,
while providing a reassuring presence
over the phone.
Police, fire, and ambulance dispatchers
answer emergency and nonemergency calls.
They quickly determine the type of emergency,
its location and the response needed,
then relay that information
to the appropriate emergency responders.
They also give medical instructions or advice
on how to stay safe until help arrives.
Dispatchers monitor and track
emergency vehicles,
coordinate responses with
other local communication centers,
and keep detailed records of calls.
Dispatch work is stressful.
Dispatchers often work long shifts
taking many calls…
under pressure to respond quickly and calmly…
sometimes handling life-threatening situations.
Most work for local government,
in centers called public safety answering points.
Some work in law enforcement agencies
and fire departments.
Shifts include weekends, evenings and holidays.
Dispatchers generally need
a high school diploma,
U.S. citizenship, and dispatcher certification.
Candidates may be required
to pass a typing test,
background check, drug tests, lie detector,
and hearing and vision tests.
Spanish language skills are a plus.