Communication officers are the first link to the safety of the citizens who live in our
community, and the officers that are sworn to protect and serve those very citizens.

Communication Officers must be able to multi-task throughout their shift. For example, they may
need to talk with a suicidal person while dispatching the appropriate EMS and law enforcement
personnel to wherever they are needed, all the while handling other emergency and routine calls
that come into the center. A "typical" 911 call can consist of anything from a complaint by a
neighbor to a report of a multiple-car accident with fatalities. Communications officers need to be
able to remain calm and collected in a tense situation, and to be alert for signs of trouble in the
background of calls they take.

New recruits receive extensive on-the-job training, performed by trainers who
have attended communication training school. However, you do not need any special schooling
beyond a high-school diploma to become a dispatcher. Prior law enforcement experience or
knowledge is always helpful, but not required.  

Communications officers are responsible, dedicated people who work very hard to help keep the
citizens and officers safe.
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