Honoring the essential role of public safety telecommunicators during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

When someone dials 911, they’re met with more than a question — they’re met with calm, focus and care. The person on the other end of the line isn’t just answering a call. They’re managing an emergency, guiding a response and making sure help is on the way.

These professionals are public safety telecommunicators, and from April 13–19, South Carolina joins the nation in recognizing their work during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

Often the first link in the emergency response chain, telecommunicators are trained to gather critical details, dispatch resources and stay connected with callers until field crews arrive. While some may be certified in Emergency Medical Dispatch, all must think clearly under pressure, communicate precisely and provide reassurance during some of the most stressful moments of a person’s life.

“Telecommunicators are the first, first responders. They are the steady voice in the background making sure every ambulance, fire truck or law enforcement officer gets to where they’re needed,” said Henry Lewis, executive director of the South Carolina EMS Association. “Without them, the system doesn’t work.”

Despite their vital role, telecommunicators often go unrecognized by the public. Many people never see the professionals behind the headsets who help deliver babies, walk callers through CPR or stay on the line during a crisis.

The South Carolina EMS Association encourages residents across the state to learn more about the people who answer 911 calls and the complex, demanding work they do each day. Whether it’s responding to a major incident or providing comfort during a medical emergency, their voices are a critical part of every emergency response.

To South Carolina’s telecommunicators: thank you for being the calm in the chaos. Your dedication, skill and service save lives.