Washington County honors public safety telecommunicators during designated appreciation week

The Washington County Board of County Commissioners held a meeting on April 15, 2025, where they recognized the vital role of public safety telecommunicators during Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. The meeting featured a proclamation honoring these essential workers, who serve as the first point of contact for citizens in emergencies.

Alan McEaney, Director of Communications and Emergency Management, emphasized the importance of telecommunicators, stating they are often unseen yet play a crucial role in emergency response. He expressed gratitude for their hard work and dedication, noting that they are the ones who take calls and dispatch help to those in need.

Commissioners shared personal testimonies highlighting the effectiveness of telecommunicators during emergencies. One commissioner recounted a personal experience where telecommunicators provided critical assistance during a life-threatening situation, underscoring their professionalism and the importance of accurate information during emergencies.

The proclamation, presented by the commissioners, recognized the week of April 13-19 as Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. It acknowledged the essential services provided by telecommunicators, which include supporting police officers, firefighters, and paramedics by ensuring they have the necessary information to respond effectively to emergencies.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the county's commitment to supporting its telecommunicators, who play a vital role in maintaining public safety and responding to emergencies in Washington County.