Rewards of Being a 911 Dispatcher

Re “Stress Taking Toll on 911 Dispatchers,” July 14.

Although it is true that stress does take a toll on 911 dispatchers, this article highlighted the negative aspects of the job. Fortunately, for those of us who are left, our job is extremely rewarding.

The article stated that the burnout is a “nationwide problem and is worsening as dispatchers are expected to handle more technology.” Who in today’s work force is not expected to handle more technology? Although technology is increasing, it also serves to make our job easier. We are trained to properly use it.

Dispatchers are not put onto the communications floor without extensive training. That can take six to 12 months, and no one is expected to do the job until they are ready.

Many times I have left work feeling proud to be a dispatcher. Once I convinced a man that suicide was not the answer to his problems. Another time, I consoled a woman who was deathly afraid of her violent husband. It is calls such as these that make us realize just how important we are.

We at the Sheriff’s Department would like to invite anyone who is interested in a dispatch position to come and spend some time with a dispatcher. I also invite anyone who has questions about our position to give us a call at 654-2311 or pick up a job description for Public Safety Dispatcher II at the sheriff’s personnel office at the Government Center in Ventura. You can also visit us at www.vcsd.org.

I hope this gives a bit of relief to the public that not all dispatchers are completely burned out. We take pride in what we do and relish the fact that we make a difference in our community.

ERIN DAVIS

Public Safety Dispatch Supervisor

Ventura County

Sheriff’s Department