The City of Richmond announced on Apr. 14 that it is recognizing National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, which takes place from April 12 to April 18, by honoring the professionals in the Department of Emergency Communications, Preparedness and Response (DECPR).
National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week draws attention to the critical role played by emergency communications officers who serve as the first point of contact during emergencies. These professionals are responsible for answering and dispatching all 911 and non-emergency public safety calls in Richmond. The department also supports public safety infrastructure through its Technology division and Office of Emergency Management.
As one of Virginia’s busiest emergency communications centers, DECPR handles more than 450,000 calls for service each year. The work requires extensive training and quick decision-making skills from emergency communications officers.
“The work our Emergency Communications Officers do is demanding in ways that aren’t always visible,” said Stephen Willoughby, Director of the Department of Emergency Communications, Preparedness and Response. “They carry the responsibility of guiding people through some of the most critical moments of their lives, and it requires a level of strength and dedication that we are deeply grateful for.”
In addition to honoring call takers and dispatchers, Richmond is also recognizing technology professionals within DECPR’s technology division and radio shop who help ensure reliable operation of systems supporting emergency response capabilities.
“When someone in our city calls for help, they should feel confident there is an entire team of professionals working behind the scenes to ensure they get the help they need, when they need it most,” Mayor Danny Avula said in a statement. “I want to thank the Department of Emergency Communications, Preparedness and response for the work they do 24/7 to keep our community safe and connected.”
