Ever wondered who was on the other end when you dialed 911?

Every day, emergency and non-emergency calls are made to police services across the province. Those calls are received by highly trained Communications Operators, whose role it is to ensure that the right response is dispatched to whatever emergency situation arises.

Ontario Provincial Police Communications Operators play a vital role in serving the over 13 million citizens in OPP patrolled communities across Ontario. Five OPP Provincial Communications Centres co-ordinate call taking and dispatch services.

These dedicated professionals are the first point of contact for persons in need of emergency assistance, and are often involved when emotions are running at their highest. In one shift, calls can range from a loss of life to a noise complaint. National Public Safety Communicator Appreciation Week provides an opportunity to publicly recognize the men and women on the other end of the line.

Throughout the week of April 14-20, 2019, the invaluable contributions of OPP Communications Operators are being highlighted on radio, newspaper and social media platforms across West Region. Visit @OPP_WR for more information.

In 2017, of the more than 1.8 million calls received at Provincial Communications Centres, 96.7% were answered in 12 seconds or less.

"Every day, our Communications Operators literally answer the call for help from the citizens of Ontario. The role they play in ensuring public safety is critical, and we are proud to take this opportunity to recognize and thank them for their service," says Inspector Stu Bertram, Unit Commander, OPP Provincial Communications Centre London, Communication Technology Services Bureau.

source: media release, OPP