National 911 Telecommunications Week recognizes dispatchers

JONESBORO, Ark. (KAIT) - National 911 Telecommunications Week is underway, offering a chance to recognize the people on the other end of the line when something goes wrong.

Dispatchers work behind the scenes to get police, fire crews, and EMS where they need to go while urging callers to remain calm and gather critical information.

Brandiann O’Marah has been a 911 dispatcher in Jonesboro for 13 years. She said this week is one of the few times dispatchers step out of the shadows and get recognized.

“We are the ones behind the phones; we’re never seen but always heard. That is one of the biggest things about being a dispatcher. It gives us one week out of the year to be seen, to be recognized, and for people to say ‘Hey, thank you for what you do,’” O’Marah said.

O’Marah said staying calm for someone who is panicking isn’t easy, even with experience.

“It is very difficult sometimes, especially depending on what type of call it is, but the training kicks in. I’ve had several calls where I’ve wanted to actually sit there and cry right along with them, but you can’t. You have to be professional, keep yourself going. You have to keep your emotions in check,” O’Marah said.

People who want to thank a dispatcher in Jonesboro or Craighead County can stop by the Jonesboro Municipal Center this week. A table in the lobby is available where people can write a card and show their appreciation.

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