Emergency communications staff recognized this week

WASHINGTON - Washington County’s 911 operators are getting recognized for their service this week, which is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

Washington County Dispatch Supervisor Cara Sorrells said the local government had talented people in the essential role, boasting 14 employees with a combined 180 years of experience.

“They are truly the ‘first’ first responder on the scene of every call, and if they do not react quickly, ask the appropriate questions, calm the frantic caller, and send the right response, then the entire call is off-track,” she said in an email. “We are very fortunate to have some of the best working right here in Washington County.”

Washington Mayor Millie Youngquist read a proclamation Tuesday night, thanking local dispatchers for their service.

“Public safety telecommunicators are the first, and most critical contact our citizens have with emergency services,” the proclamation said, later adding that the emergency response staff were a, “vital link for firefighters, police officers and paramedics.”

The Washington County Communications staff includes Cara Sorrells, Sandy Lovetinsky, Teresa Todd, Melanie Larson, Shelley Reed-Wulf, Hunter Erwin, Delainey Parish, Riley Thomann, Rachel Kelly, Lydia Houston, Aspen Bromell, Kathryn Crumly, Rendee Campbell and Laura McDowell.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com