What is Police Dispatch?
Police dispatch, also known as Law Enforcement Dispatch or Public Safety Dispatch, is the coordinated communication process between law enforcement agencies and the public that allows for the swift response to emergency situations. Dispatchers play a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of communities by answering calls, dispatching patrols, and providing vital support to officers in the field.
What Does Police Dispatch Entail?
Answering Calls
The primary responsibility of dispatchers is to answer phone calls from the public. This includes receiving 9-1-1 or other emergency calls, conducting emergency medical dispatch (EMS) calls, and performing routine calls for service like non-emergency traffic problems or noise complaints.
| 911 Call Types | Description |
|---|---|
| • 911 Emergency Calls | A life-threatening situation |
| • 911 Non-Emergency Calls | A non-threatening situation, such as suspicious activity or a noise disturbance |
| • 311 Calls (Some Cities) | A civic concern, such as litter, potholes, or streetlight outages |
Dispatching Patrols
After answering a call, dispatchers assess the situation and dispatch the appropriate officer(s) to respond to the emergency. This entails:
• Determining the Priority: Dispatchers determine the urgency of each call and prioritize responses according to the severity of the situation.
• Identifying the Right Resource: Dispachers identify the most appropriate personnel, equipment, or specialized units (e.g., K9, EMT, or SWAT) required to respond to the incident.
• Dispatch Instructions: Dispatchers provide written and verbal instructions to respond units, including location data, suspect descriptions, or scene information.
Officer Support
In the field, dispatchers providing vital information to officers, monitors the situation, and coordinates with nearby agencies to ensure public safety. This includes:
• Real-time Surveillance: Dispatchers track vehicle locations, monitor surveillance video feeds, and monitor alarms to stay informed about developments on the scene.
• Resource Coordination: Disptachers coordinate with emergency services, such as emergency medical services (EMS), fire departments, or tactical units, to ensure multi-agency responses.
• Officer Assistance: Dispachers provide technical, tactical, and procedural assistance to officers, including call data, suspect information, and scene diagrams.
Key Skills Required for Police Dispatchers
To thrive in this high-pressure and fast-paced environment, law enforcement dispatchers need possess a range of essential soft skills and technical skills:
Soft Skills:
• Effective Communication: Clear and concise communication for effective call handling and teamwork
• Critical Thinking: Ability to assess, analyze, and prioritize data for informed decision-making
• Attention to Detail: Accurate and speedy entry of data, to minimize errors and ensure the public’s safety
• Stress Management: Ability to remain calm and composed under pressure
<i.Technical Skills:
• Dispatch Equipment Operation: Proficiency using radio systems, computer screens, and other dispatch systems
• Data Analytics: Ability to quickly reference, analyze, and adapt to changing data
• Geographic Knowledge: Familiarity with roadways, landmarks, and area boundaries
• Legal Knowledge: Understanding law enforcement procedures, policies, and protocols
Conclusion
Police dispatch is the lifeblood of law enforcement agencies, enabling swift, informed, and effective emergency responses. Dispatchers orchestrate the coordination of essential services, ensuring public trust, and ultimately, upholding the safety and justice.
