So you want to be a 9 1 1 Operator
911 operator is what most people refer to use. But, the correct name is a 911 Dispatcher or Telecommunications. Most people don't understand what this job really is. Most people think that Dispatcher sit behind a desk and just answer phones. Well, that is not the case.
As a 911 Dispatcher you are responsible for sending out the right resources for a emergency call. When a 911 call comes in you have to decide if it is a true emergency or non emergency call. You have to have good communication skills so that you can be able to talk a child or a lay person through CPR over the phone until EMS arrives or be able to keep a frightened child on the phone until police gets to the scene to help. You also have to be able to keep your mind clear, stay calm and focused while getting information off the caller so that you are able to send out the right resources to the residence such as fire, police, or ems.and be able to make decisions in spit seconds.
Most people don't realize that 911 dispatchers are actually the first people to have contact with a patient or person before police, fire, or ems shows up on scene. People don't realize that you have to put up with all kids of people calling and being rude. Calling you all types of names over the phone. You have to keep track of where all of your EMS units are, police units, and fire units are. Dispatchers have to notify area hospitals if there are any disasters that has a lot of patient that may be comeing their way. They may even have to relay report to the hospital for EMS crews or facilitate radio traffic.
As a 911 Dispatcher you have to be trained in CPR and also be trained as a Emergency Medical Dispatcher before you can actually be able to work in a dispach center. Many 911 Dispatchers are trained EMTs, Paramedics, Firefighters, or Police Officers. This job can be rewarding and fun at times. But, it is also a highly stressful one too.
The best thing to do if you want a career in the field of a 911 Dispatcher visit your local police, fire, or ems station that has a dispatch center. See if you cant spend a day shadowing a 911 Dispatcher and find out what they really do. Pick their brains ask questions. Find out if this is really for you before you go into it. Most places will set up a time for you to come in and shadow the job. Others may let you come in a group to tour the dispatch center. All in all if you chose to go into this career it is a rewarding one by all means.
