Emergency Call Takers, Dispatchers Honoured

The Office of Emergency Management is recognizing 911 call-takers and emergency dispatchers for their pivotal role in public safety, as part of National Public Safety Telecommunications Week, April 11 to 17.

Throughout the province, these skilled professionals connect people in crisis to emergency services. They ensure a prompt and accurate emergency response through the collection of vital information, including the nature of the emergency and the location.

"This week provides the opportunity to create public awareness of the important services delivered around the clock by emergency communications personnel," said Ramona Jennex, Minister of Emergency Management. "We pay tribute to their dedication to preserving the safety of all Nova Scotians and, by doing so, improving our lives and the communities in which we live."

"911 Call-takers and emergency dispatchers must act swiftly in what are often life-and-death circumstances," said Andy Lathem, interim CEO of EMO. "This week is a good time to reflect on the valuable service they provide and thank them for their commitment."

Nova Scotia's four 911 centres -- in Dartmouth, Sydney, Truro and Kentville -- employ 176 public safety telecommunicators and handled almost 200,000 calls last year. The Emergency Management Office administers the provincewide 911 emergency reporting service and works closely with all emergency response agencies.