Posted Monday, April 15, 2024

Proclamation Recognizes Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Important Work

HUNTINGTON, Ind. – April 14^th through April 20^th is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in Huntington and Huntington County, the birthplace of the nation’s 911 emergency system.

“The impact of 911 is felt every day,” Public Safety Dispatch Director Tim Allen said. “We are often told what a comfort it is knowing that help can be found if needed. Just call 911 and a telecommunications professional will listen to your concerns and provide assistance by sending Police, Fire or first responders. We cannot thank the Public Safety agencies that serve Huntington City and Huntington County enough.”

Allen also thanked the City and County’s six-person dispatch team – the individuals who answer 911 calls and make quick, life-saving decisions in the heat of the moment – for their incredible performance.

“Their dedication to and compassion for those needing assistance is undeniable. They truly are heroes,” he said.

Fittingly, Huntington was the first U.S. city to institute 911 service. U.S. Congressman and Huntington native J. Edward Roush placed the first 911 call to Huntington Police Officer Fred Dutt on March 1, 1968, to debut the new emergency response service.

The 911 nationwide emergency system was first announced in January 1968. It was J. Edward Roush’s signature legislation.

Huntington Mayor Richard Strick joined Huntington County Commissioners Rob Miller and Tom Wall to read and sign a proclamation declaring a week to recognize and honor public safety telecommunications professionals. The ceremony was held at O’Donnell Center at Victory Noll, the location of the combined city-county dispatch operations.