The public safety telecommunicators week, sponsored by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials International, is celebrated annually, and recognizes the thousands of public safety telecommunicators who respond to emergency calls, dispatch emergency professionals and equipment, maintain radio and emergency phone systems, and render lifesaving assistance across Canada.
In honour of this annual week-long event, Mayor Amarjeet Sohi signed a Proclamation, declaring April 9-15, 2023, NPSTW in Edmonton.
“The public instill a great deal of trust in emergency communication officers (ECOs) and rely on their professionalism and care in times of intense personal crisis and community-wide disasters. Acknowledging this week allows communities the opportunity to thank telecommunications staff in Edmonton, and across the country, for their commitment and service,” says Inspector Christa Pennie, EPS ECOM Branch.
EPS is the primary Public-Safety Answering Point (PSAP) for the City of Edmonton. As the primary PSAP, EPS receives 9-1-1 calls directly from the public where the ECO determines the nature of the emergency, caller location and what emergency service is required to respond. Calls requiring Emergency Medical Services (EMS) or EFRS are transferred to the secondary PSAPs (EMS and EFRS) for further call evaluation. Calls requiring police response are kept in-house for further evaluation and dispatch.
“We honour and thank our telecommunication personnel who tirelessly serve behind the scenes in this demanding profession,” says EFRS Fire Chief Joe Zatylny. “During the observance of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, we celebrate the exceptional service provided by the first first responders when Edmontonians call for help. Thank you for all you do and the service you provide.”
Between EPS and EFRS they employ over 200 Emergency Communications Officers and Emergency Communications specialists who answer and maintain the phone system, providing support as the first point of contact when the public needs emergency assistance.