Local dispatchers honored this week

The second week in April is traditionally designated as National Public SafetyTelecommunicators Week and this week, April 14-19 local dispatchers are being recognized for the work they do behind the scenes of public safety.

Many people don’t realize the training and discipline necessary to become a public safety dispatcher, according to Shackelford County sheriff Ed Miller.

A new dispatcher is required to take the basic telecommunicator licensing course within the first year of being hired.

In addition, dispatchers must attend the TDD/ TTY course to learn how to communicate with callers who are deaf or are unable to verbally communicate.

Continuing education also is needed and telecommunicators must have 20 CE hours every two years.

Miller said local dispatchers are required to have additional training because of assigned jail duties.

“We really have a little bit of a twist when it comes to Shackelford County training requirements,” Miller said. “Because our dispatchers also serve as jailers, they have to obtain that additional education and license, so they end up with two state licenses.”

Miller said his staff of dispatchers wears a number of hats for the department.

“Not only do they answer 911 calls and general switchboard calls, they manageradiotraffic,monitor the jail cameras, and search female inmates on intake,” said Miller.

In addition to Shackelford County Law Enforcement Center dispatch supervisor Mistilee Stevens, the current roster includes Karen Roberson, Maria Atz, Autumn Parenti, and Melynda Flournoy.