Letters to the editor
Marion County celebrates National Public-Safety Telecommunications week
To the Editor:
Marion County Emergency Communications will honor the men and women who serve as public-safety dispatchers during National Public-Safety Telecommunications Week, April 10-16.
Introduced to Congress by the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International in 1991, National Public Safety Telecommunications Week is the second full week of April each year. This week is dedicated to public safety telecommunicators who aid in providing 911 emergency assistance to citizens everywhere.
Every day, millions of people depend on the skill, expertise, and commitment of the men and women who work in public safety telecommunications. These individuals help save countless lives by responding to emergency calls, dispatching emergency professionals and equipment, and providing moral support to citizens in distress.
The term "911" often is associated with rapid emergency response, poise under pressure, aid and compassion in times of distress, and critical decision-making within seconds. Many people don't stop and think about these seemingly nameless, faceless individuals until they experience actual emergencies themselves. These professionals make the difference between life and death in many instances.
By officially recognizing these public safety telecommunications professionals, Marion County Emergency Communications hopes to awaken public awareness and promote much-needed education regarding important public-safety issues and legislation.
Marion County Emergency Communications recognizes Marvena Cheever, Jenny Creamer, Linda Klenda, Loretta Klose, Sandy Mille, and Kenneth Newell.
Michele Abbott-Becker, KCEM Director
Marion County Emergency Management/Homeland Security Emergency Communications
