Heroes saving lives behind the phone

NEGAUNEE — April 8th-14th is National Public Safety Telecommunicator’s week.

This week is about appreciating and spreading awareness about the important role dispatchers do every single day. Dispatchers are in charge of asking the right questions so they can get you the help that you need.

“The role of an emergency Telecommunicator  has changed so much in the past couple of years. 15 years ago it was somebody that answered a phone, today you’re answering phones providing medical instructions. You’re doing a lot that the public just doesn’t know about,” said Jon Cieslinski, Emergency Dispatch for Michigan State Police.

These heroes behind the scenes, just might seem like a voice to you. But there is one thing to keep in mind.

“They are human beings and the emotions that come through the phone and the radio they live with everyday. They have been trained to calm people down and work through situations and they save lives every day by doing that,” added Captain John E. Halpin, 8th District Commander.

Everyday the dispatchers bring their experience and their best to help keep the community safe.