MENU
SEARCHCommunication is a two-way street. We asked several officers for three things they want dispatchers to know, as a companion piece to our September feature, "10 Things Dispatchers Want You to Know."
Photo courtesy of Long Beach (Calif.) PD.
An emergency dispatcher is the police officer's "lifeline out in the field," as POLICE Magazine Assoc. Editor Dean Scoville pointed out in his September feature, "10 Things Dispatchers Want You to Know."
For the feature, Dean asked dispatchers what they'd like officers to do to help them better communicate information to the field.
The 2012 Aurora movie theater massacre provided a shining example of a dispatcher at the top of her game. Kathie Stauffer's clear, calm voice guided officers and medical personnel in the chaotic moments following the shooting.
Because communication is a two-way street, PoliceMag.com took the opportunity to flip the script in this related blog post. We asked several officers for three things they want dispatchers to know.
1. Listen To the Radio
During a critical incident, listening is at least as important as talking, especially as information comes rushing in. Stories abound of dispatchers who haven't been focused on the job at hand. In May, a Montgomery County, Md., dispatcher could be heard snoring on a 911 call. One officer told us dispatchers have been caught playing Xbox in her jurisdiction. Staying alert helps dispatchers stay ahead of fast-changing emergency events.
2. You Can Never Get Enough Information
When talking to 911 callers, dispatchers need to push the limit of information they glean from the caller. Descriptive details of suspects, vehicles, or locations give officers the edge they need to spot a fleeing suspect, safely resolve a disturbance, or know where to go to help victims. Richard Poplawski's mother told a dispatcher her son had multiple weapons, a fact that was never relayed to the three Pittsburgh officers who were fatally shot by him in April 2009.
3. Stay Calm
Set the tone for field officers by remaining calm, because nervousness and excitement can needlessly intensify an already tense situation. A calm voice "lifts everybody up," one officer told us. Officers are trained not to scream into their mics; dispatchers should also remain calm and collected.
This is by no means a comprehensive list. Please add other advice for dispatchers in the comments below.
Related:
In the relentless heat of summer and even early fall in some parts of the country, officers face the important task of protecting their K-9 partners while working in sweltering temperatures. Recognizing changes in a dog’s behavior is the key.
Read More →
ILEETA is a complete resource for trainers to address trainers' needs. Its mission is to enhance the skills and safety of criminal justice practitioners while fostering stronger and safer communities.
Read More →
Technologies for improving law enforcement training and training management were some of the highlights at this year's show.
Read More →
The 2024 pursuit-rated vehicles--all pickup trucks or SUVs, including two battery electric models the Chevrolet Blazer EV AWD and Ford Mustang Mach-E--were put through their paces.
Read More →
As more alternative-fuel and hybrid vehicles hit the road, police and other first responders need to understand that they are no more dangerous than conventional vehicles. However, there are certain safety considerations every cop should know.
Read More →
Garmont Tactical has found wide acceptance by military boot buyers, but now the company is trying to better respond to the needs of police officers. Many cops now are not fans of 8-inch boots, so Garmont is adapting.
Read More →
Through our magazine and website and our Police Technology eXchange event, we promise to provide you with information and access to resources to help you do your job safer and better.
Read More →
The Harris County Sheriff's Office is a model for other agencies that want to learn about crisis intervention and mental health crisis response. Sgt. Jose Gomez shares the story of their programs and provides 10 tips for mental health crisis call response
Read More →
Mike Barham, of Galco Holsters, shares five important considerations to keep in mind when you buy off-duty concealed or plain-clothes carry holsters.
Read More →
While the burden of accurately reporting use-of-force situations is on an individual deputy or officer, the person reviewing those reports shares in the responsibility of making sure the reporting is done properly, with clear details included.
Read More →