The hard work of emergency dispatchers to respond to emergency calls, dispatch emergency professionals and equipment, and render lifesaving assistance is being recognized now through April 19 during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, often just called Dispatch Week.
“It’s a time for recognition, a time to raise awareness, and a time to give support,” said Hardin County E-911 Deputy Director Michelle Bowen. “It’s also a chance to say thank you to the people who work behind the scenes, often without much public attention. They help save lives and keep communities safe.”
The week is a chance to recognize the hard work of the group of about 30 telecommunicators working around the clock to keep Hardin County safe, something made especially relevant during the recent weather events in the county.
“We try to pre-plan if we know something’s coming in, and we always have people that are more than willing to come in,” Bowen said. “Some of them spend the night here just so they can make sure that they’ll be able to get here and be able to work. They’re always team players and, honestly, they just want to take care of the community.”
Businesses or organizations looking to give a special thank you with a special treat are welcome to visit the dispatch center at the Hardin County Government Building, but Bowen says a simple thank you goes a long way.
“We are not really out there in the public eye,” Bowen said. “Nobody sees us so we don’t get the recognition that a lot of first responders have, so if you know a telecommunicator, or you can thank us on Facebook. We’ve got a Facebook page: Hardin County 911, Kentucky.”
The Kentucky State Police is recognizing Dispatch Week with a door decorating contest at the radio rooms of participating posts. Vote for your favorites on the KSP’s Facebook page.
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