This week marks the celebration of National Telecommunicators Week, with Governor JB Pritzker designating April 13-19 as Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in Illinois. This initiative honors the dedication of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and Illinois State Police telecommunicators. In 2024 alone, these professionals managed over 567,000 calls, playing a vital part in emergency response operations. Their efforts are instrumental in delivering prompt support and ensuring community safety. The acknowledgment highlights the indispensable contributions these individuals make, often serving as the critical link between citizens in distress and the emergency services striving to assist them.
“Telecommunicators play a critical role in ensuring the safety of our communities by swiftly answering calls, coordinating emergency services, and providing life-saving information. Their dedication, skill, and professionalism often go unnoticed, but they are an essential part of the emergency response system.,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera. “I extend my deepest gratitude to our telecommunicators across the state for their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to public safety.”
“Telecommunicators are often the lifeline between someone needing help, and help arriving on scene,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “Telecommunicators are also the calming voice on the line for officers during an emergency situation, helping to keep them safe. During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, help us thank all those who have dedicated their lives to serving the public and answering the phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
Every year, the second week of April is set aside to honor our telecommunicators who are truly the first calming and helpful voice some hear in a time of need.
