WYRZ.org 98.9 WYRZ – The Voice of Hendricks County
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA (July 24, 2018) — Next week, Treasurer Kelly Mitchell will begin a month long tour of PSAPs (Public Safety Answering Points) around the Hoosier state. As the Indiana Treasurer of State, Mitchell is the only treasurer in the country to chair a 911 board.
“My role on the Statewide 911 Board is a unique one”, said Treasurer Mitchell. “I look forward to meeting with dispatchers and directors to learn more about what our board can do to assist them at a local level.”
The tour will focus on the top twenty-five PSAPs who utilize Text-to-911 in Indiana. This year, 2018, marks the second year of statewide Text-to-911 services available to all Hoosiers. During its first year alone, 173,213 text sessions occurred to and from dispatchers. The Statewide 911 Board continues a public service campaign to inform residents of this service available to them.
The Treasurer will focus on learning about the training standards in each county. Currently, the Statewide 911 board is reviewing and implementing new training opportunities for dispatchers.
“It takes a uniquely qualified and trained person to handle the pressure and stress incurred when answering 9-1-1 calls. Telecommunicators answer calls every day from citizens who may experience one of the worst moments their lives… yet it may be their bravest moment as well,” said Statewide 911 Executive Director Ed Reuter. “The Statewide 911 board is pleased to support this new training program for Indiana’s public safety telecommunicators so they are knowledgeable and effective as they serve our communities.”
