
DISPATCH COMMUNICATIONS CENTER
The Township of Union 911 Dispatch Center is a critical facility responsible for receiving and processing emergency calls from the public. Our highly trained 911 Operators play a vital role in coordinating the response of emergency services, including police, fire, medical, and other first responders. Our 911 Dispatch Center is responsible for:
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Emergency Call Reception: The primary function of a 911 dispatch center is to receive incoming emergency calls made to the 911 emergency number. These calls can be made from landline phones, cell phones, or other communication devices.
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Trained Telecommunicators: Our center is staffed with trained telecommunicators or 911 operators who are skilled in handling high-stress situations. They are trained to ask the right questions, provide instructions to callers, and assess the urgency of the situation.
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Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) Systems: Dispatchers use CAD systems to record and manage incoming calls, allocate resources, and track the location of first responders. These systems help streamline the dispatch process and improve response times.
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Geographic Information Systems (GIS): GIS technology is used to pinpoint the location of the emergency accurately, which is crucial for dispatching the appropriate responders to the scene.
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Multi-Agency Coordination: Our dispatch center is equipped to handle emergency calls for various agencies, including police, fire, and medical services. They coordinate the response of multiple agencies when necessary.
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Prioritization of Calls: Our dispatchers must determine the urgency of each call and prioritize them accordingly. Calls are categorized based on the nature of the emergency, ensuring that life-threatening situations receive immediate attention.
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Language Interpretation Services: Our dispatch center utilizes language interpretation services to assist callers who speak languages other than English.
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Dispatch to First Responders: Once the nature and location of the emergency have been determined, our dispatchers communicate this information to the appropriate first responders, whether it's police officers, firefighters, paramedics, or other specialized units.
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Radio Communication: Our dispatchers maintain constant radio communication with first responders to relay critical information, updates, and ensure the safety of personnel on the scene.
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Call Record Keeping: Comprehensive records are maintained for all emergency calls and dispatch activities. These records are essential for accountability, tracking response times, and legal purposes.
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Training and Certification: Our dispatchers undergo extensive training and certification to handle emergency calls effectively. This includes training on how to manage high-stress situations and provide instructions to callers until help arrives.
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Quality Assurance and Supervision: Our dispatch center utilizes quality assurance programs and supervisory staff to monitor and evaluate the performance of dispatchers and ensure compliance with established protocols and standards.
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911 dispatch centers are a crucial link between the public and first responders, serving as the first point of contact in emergency situations. The efficient and accurate handling of emergency calls is essential in saving lives and property, making them a critical component of public safety and emergency response systems.