NENA: The 9-1-1 Association’s Post

I explore the Top 10 most common misconceptions about the job of 9-1-1 emergency dispatchers.

Great article here on a vital profession that is often misunderstood!

Let's clear up some common misconceptions about the job of 9-1-1 emergency dispatchers. Here's our list of the Top 10. https://lnkd.in/g3YwmkkB

🎖 Honoring Our First First Responders 🎖 💡 Did you know? More than 1.3 million individuals work as first responders across the United States, selflessly dedicating their lives to protecting and serving their communities. But, at the heart of every emergency call, before any fire truck, ambulance, or patrol car arrives, it’s a 9-1-1 dispatcher who takes the call, providing calm amidst crisis and getting help enroute. These heroes are the unseen yet essential backbone of public safety. Today, let’s honor not just those on the frontlines but those behind the scenes the first, first responders and all who serve. A message from our president here at THD to all 9-1-1 professionals: "Because of the daily efforts of 9-1-1 professionals, our communities are safer—truly, the public safety system doesn’t work without them, the first first responders. Today, we acknowledge you, along with all first responders providing essential emergency services across the country. Thank you for what you do!” – Adam Timm Thank you, dispatchers, and every responder out there, for making our communities stronger. 💛 🖤 #FirstResponders #911Dispatchers #PublicSafety #ThankYou #thehealthydispatcher #911heroes

🚨 Today is #NationalFirstRespondersDay, and M&J Engineering is taking a moment to recognize the critical role that these dedicated professionals play in our lives. From firefighters who run toward danger, to police officers who maintain peace, to paramedics and ambulance drivers who deliver life-saving care on the move, their contributions are invaluable to the safety and well-being of our communities. At M&J, we recognize that the infrastructure we help build aren’t just roads and structures—they’re vital lifelines that streamline emergency responses and help first responders deliver lifesaving care on the move. Our teams work tirelessly to ensure that roadways are designed for efficiency and accessibility and that critical medical centers are constructed with the highest quality craftmanship, because every second counts in an emergency. Did you know that there are over 25 million first responders in the US? These brave individuals are the backbone of our communities, providing crucial support in times of crisis--a group that truly deserves recognition. 👏 👏 Learn more about National First Responders Day here: thankyoufirstresponder.org #SupportingFirstResponders #EngineeringWithPurpose #CommunityFirst #InfrastructureMatters #BuildingForHeroes 🚒🚑🚓

A recent article by Ty Wooten, ENP on 911 Telecommunicator reclassification has elicited some interesting responses. And perhaps they shouldn’t go unanswered. Before I respond, let me say that I believe in my heart and soul that every single 911 Telecommunicator should be classified as more than “clerical.” But I have a few questions. First question: for those of you who say OMB/BLS is “not doing their job,” – what exactly do you think their job is? It might be a good idea to find out. I looked it up. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) “provides statistical guidance to the department and its agencies and works in partnership with those agencies to support their data needs.” The Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system is housed within BLS, and manages a data system and “a federal statistical standard used by federal agencies to classify workers into occupational categories for the purpose of collecting, calculating, or disseminating data.” They are authorized (required) to classify jobs into one of 867 detailed “occupations,” based on objective, measurable data. So – your opinions are important, but they won’t help BLS “do their job.” They need data - from us - to reclassify Telecommunicators. (https://lnkd.in/gx-YzqFW) Next question: In the 50+ year history of 911 – when have we ever entrusted the really important stuff to someone else? And you want to entrust reclassification to Congress? I’ll leave that one right there. Last question: Is it fair that 911 Telecommunicators have to go through the process of making sure the data can support their classification? As someone who came to 911 from one of the other 867 occupations that met those criteria – yes – I’m pretty sure it is.

It's National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week and we can't let a day this week go by without recognizing the contributions of those First, First Responders. Thank you for you commitment and service. Public safety just doesn't work without Emergency Dispatchers, calltakers, and other emergency telecommunicators like you. We know the work you do and how difficult it can be. We also know how well you keep us all safe. On the first day of #NPSTW, Priority Dispatch thanks you. Your work doesn't go unnoticed. #PublicSafety #EmergencyDispatch #Calltaking #EmergencyResponse

As we continue County Government Month with a focus on justice and public safety, let's shine a spotlight on our 911 dispatchers! 911 dispatchers exhibit remarkable composure and quick thinking, ensuring timely assistance during crises. Despite the immense pressure and emotional strain, their unwavering dedication saves lives and serves our communities heroically. If you ever need 911 assistance here's what to expect when you call. 1️⃣ Know your location! If you are unsure of your location our dispatchers have multiple tools to help locate you quickly thanks to WPH2 & RapidSOS. 2️⃣ After confirming your location, our dispatchers will ask for your name & phone number, then inquire about the emergency. 3️⃣ Be clear & concise about your emergency. 4️⃣ Dispatchers may ask follow-up questions, but rest assured, it won't delay emergency responders. 5️⃣ Our goal: to dispatch calls within 62 seconds of answering, aligning with NENA standards (National Emergency Number Association). Thank you to our dedicated dispatchers for their crucial role in keeping our community safe! #911Dispatch #PublicSafety #forwardtogether #clermontcounty #ohio

We teach you Effective Strategies to Respond to an Active Assailant Threat! Our comprehensive Active Assailant Training Program covers key elements like situational awareness, run-hide-fight principle, communication, emergency evacuation, first aid, and post-incident support. Stay prepared, stay safe! #ActiveAssailantTraining #SafetyFirst #BePrepared #StaySafe #WorkplaceSafety

I've been reflecting on the importance of self-reliance, safety, and personal protection skills. It's a stark reality that in critical moments, we might be the first line of defense for ourselves and our loved ones. This realization isn't about fear, but about preparedness. Learning skills like first aid, self-defense, and emergency response empowers us to handle unforeseen situations with confidence. Investing time in these skills means stepping up when it matters most, ensuring we're ready to protect and assist those who depend on us. #SelfReliance #Preparedness #PersonalSafety