This week marks National Telecommunicator Week. Dispatchers are often unsung heroes of the emergency services system. Dispatchers are the first people that someone in need of fire, EMS, or law enforcement resources encounter and are a vital link in getting the closest appropriate resources to those in need.

Dispatchers ascertain the nature and location of calls, provide medical instructions including CPR and first aid, and help calm situations until responders arrive. They mobilize vast numbers of resources within seconds of an emergency caller's call. Dispatchers link fire, medical and law enforcement resources together to get citizens the critical services they need when seconds count. Working around the clock, the men and women of the emergency communications center are silent heroes.

Make sure to thank your local Telecommunicators this week!