STAR JOURNAL

Telecommunicators in Oneida County answered approximately 43,000 calls, nearly one-third of those were emergency 911 calls. This week, April 8-14 is set aside to recognize telecommunicators’ impact on the community.

“National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week” is a great opportunity to reflect on the important role of the 911 telecommunicator as the true first, first responder,” said Kenneth Kortenhof, Oneida County Emergency Management Director. “911 telecommunicators work hard behind the scenes to protect the public by answering emergency calls, providing critical prearrival instructions, dispatching appropriate resources and supporting various police, fire and emergency medical services. All too often, their contributions go unnoticed. This week we commend them for the tough work they do.”

E911 telecommunicators are the first people that people reach out to when they need help.

“Our E911 telecommunicators work around the clock answering calls reporting car accidents, fires, medical emergencies, crimes in progress and other stressful situations as well as ensuring the safety of law enforcement, fire and emergency medical personnel,” said Oneida County Sheriff Grady Hartman. This week, we honor them for their commitment, devotion and hard work.”

Telecommunicators in Oneida County provide countywide dispatch services for one full-time fire department, 17 volunteer fire departments, seven ambulance services, 10 first responder groups, one city police department, one county law enforcement agency and three township police agencies.