Miller retires after more than three decades as communications officer (MD)

Miller retires after more than three decades as communications officer (MD)

by | Jan 10, 2022 | Comm Center News

OAKLAND — Last month, Byron Miller retired after over 31 years as a public safety communications officer for Garrett County.

He started out as a volunteer with the Northern Rescue Squad in 1984, which led to acquaintances with the current 911 dispatchers, which is what the position was called at the time.

“Encouragement from several of them and particularly my wife led me to this career for the next 30-plus years,” Miller said…

Armstrong County adds ability for those who need help to send text messages to 911 (PA)

Armstrong County adds ability for those who need help to send text messages to 911 (PA)

by | Jan 10, 2022 | Comm Center News

Armstrong County residents now have the option of sending a text message to report an emergency to 911, public safety officials announced Tuesday, Dec. 28.

While the ability to text could be valuable in a scenario when speaking to a dispatcher might escalate a situation, calling should be the first line of communication when seeking help, said Chad Gradwell, the county’s 911 coordinator…

Public Safety Advocate: Resolutions to Enhance Public-Safety Communications – Part One

by | Jan 7, 2022 | Articles, Comm Center News

I trust you and yours had a great holiday season! As we move on to 2022, hopes are that Covid will finally be under control and we will watch our economy roar back to life. Now it is time for making New Year’s Resolutions with the best of intentions (but most of us won’t keep them very long).

I am hopeful we can start this year on a positive note for public-safety communications and that we will continue enhancing technologies, devices, and applications the public-safety community uses on FirstNet. Let’s all sign on to the resolutions outlined below and see how many we can keep through 2022…

WCNC-MEDIC facing 911 dispatcher shortage, putting more stress on the system (NC)

by | Jan 7, 2022 | Comm Center News

MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — Staffing shortages have been a common and at times debilitating side effect of the pandemic. Mecklenburg County, like many other communities across the country, is facing a 911 operator shortage.

When someone dials 911, they are counting on a dispatcher to answer the call quickly. The MEDIC call center gets about 500 calls a day… READ MORE

CAHOOTS: Can a groundbreaking public safety model work in Ottawa? (Canada)

by | Jan 7, 2022 | Comm Center News

A man is having a mental crisis in a public place. Bystanders notice and dial 911, but since the man seems to offer no threat to others, no police car with blaring sirens arrives.