SACRAMENTO,
Calif. – Public safety dispatchers, often the first assistance people reach in
an emergency, provide a crucial link between the California Highway Patrol
(CHP) and the public. In recognition of
their service, the CHP joins other law enforcement agencies to recognize
National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week on April 11-17, 2021.
California
legislation enacted in 2020 reclassified public safety dispatchers as “first
responders.” The new classification
acknowledges their vital role in the state’s emergency response chain.
“As
recognized first responders in California, our CHP public safety dispatchers
and operators remain resilient in times of crisis,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray
said. “They are devoted professionals
who provide the timely handling of all calls for services and are the lifeline
between the public and emergency services.”
The CHP
employs more than 700 dispatchers who provide critical services to communities
throughout California. In 2020, these dispatchers
who work out of one of the 24 CHP communications centers statewide handled more
than 4.9 million 9-1-1 calls from the public.
In emergency
situations, dispatchers must instantly determine the correct response to ensure
the safety of all parties involved. They
are also in constant communication with patrol officers, looking up license
plates, driver license numbers, and running criminal record checks on wanted
subjects.
Those
interested in a rewarding career as a CHP public safety dispatcher are
encouraged to apply for one of the more than 175 positions available
statewide. Details are available at www.chp.ca.gov/chp-careers.
The
mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and
Security.
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