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National Public-Safety Telecommunications Week observed
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 Barton County Commissioners Monday morning approved a proclamation denoting this as National Public Safety Telecommunications Week at the request of 911 Director Doug Hubbard. In part, the proclamation honors public safety communications officers for their “vital role in protecting the life and property of Barton County citizens.” 

“Many people don’t stop to think about these seemingly nameless, faceless individuals until they experience actual emergencies themselves,” Hubbard said. These professionals make the difference between life and death in many instances.

“They are not only the most critical contact for the callers, they are also a link to emergency responders,” he said. 

By officially recognizing these public safety telecommunications professionals, Barton County Commissioners can awaken public awareness and promote much-needed education regarding important public-safety issues and legislation,” he said.

Introduced to Congress by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials International in 1991, National Public-Safety Telecommunications Week is the second full week of April each year. This week is dedicated to public safety telecommunicators (dispatchers) who aid in providing 9-1-1 emergency assistance to citizens everywhere.

“Every day, millions of people depend on the skill, expertise and commitment of the women and men who work in public safety telecommunications,” a release from APCO said. “These individuals work countless hours to help save lives by responding to emergency calls, dispatching emergency professionals and equipment, and providing moral support to citizens in distress.”

The term “9-1-1” is often associated with rapid emergency response, poise under pressure, aid and compassion in times of distress and critical decision-making within seconds, the release said. “Don’t forget to recognize and thank your local telecommunicators for the job they do.”