SPD: National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, there when we need them most

National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week is being recognized in Sheridan from April 12 through April 18, as local agencies honor the critical role of emergency dispatchers.

The week highlights the work of communications technicians with the Sheridan Police Department and Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office, who answer 911 calls and coordinate responses for law enforcement, nine different fire departments and EMS across the entire county. 

Often serving as the first point of contact during emergencies, dispatchers gather information, provide life-saving instructions and direct first responders to scenes. 

While appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse Sheridan Police Department Chief Travis Koltiska and Captain Tom Ringley spoke on the professional character, devotion to duty and community service that each Sheridan telecommunicator displays each time they sign in for duty. 

Chief T. Koltiska

Fully staffed, the SPD dispatch center has 11 telecommunicators, with one serving as the telecommunications coordinator. Ringley said the profession requires specialized training, including certification through the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy and emergency medical dispatch certification that must be renewed every two years. 

In Sheridan, the SPD continues to make public awareness efforts aimed at recognizing the professionalism, dedication and composure telecommunicators provide while serving as the calm voice in times of crisis.