You don't see them at scenes of emergencies and crimes, but they save lives just like the officers and deputies who do respond. They're out of sight, out of mind.
Who are these unheralded first responders? They're 911 dispatchers, also known as communications operators.
Last week, we shed light on their daily work at the Jefferson City Police Department's 911 Center as part of National Public Safety Telecommunications Week. We found them to be hard-working and motivated by the public service they provide.
"My adrenaline rush is helping people," Erin Gabathuler said in a Friday story. "When you help someone and they say 'thank you,' it's very rewarding."
Gabathuler has been with the department for a decade.
The JCPD said their communications operators serve as the first call takers for all police- and fire/medical-related emergencies, with responsibility of addressing 911 calls for service for the Jefferson City Police and Fire Departments, Jefferson City Animal Control, Cole County Sheriff's Department, Cole County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), as well as the Cole County Fire Protection District, Regional West Fire Protection District, Osage Fire Protection District and the Russellville/Lohman Fire Protection District. Additionally, and as needed, our Communications Operators will coordinate taking calls and dispatch efforts for emergencies that arise from the activation of the Cole County Emergency Response Team.
They work 10-hour days to cover services 24 hours a day/365 days a year.
They have a number of responsibilities not only to receive and dispatch calls, but also to maintain records on warrants, orders of protection, and so forth.
Last year, the 911 Communications Center answered more than 106,000 calls for service.
If this job sounds like a rewarding way to earn a living while serving your community, this may be your chance. The JCPD is accepting applicants for a vacant position within the 911 center. For more information, visit the employment section at www.jeffersoncitymo.gov.
Our local dispatchers likely don't get the accolades they deserve. It can be a pressure-cooker job that requires you to be cool under fire. Done properly, the job aids in law enforcement and often helps save lives.
We'd like to take this opportunity to thank our local dispatchers for their professionalism and dedication in serving our community.