As the only state treasurer in the nation to chair a 911 board, Indiana Treasurer Kelly Mitchell will begin a month-long tour this week of public safety answering points across the state.
On Aug. 8, she’ll visit the Hamilton County Public Safety Communications Center in Noblesville.
“My role on the Statewide 911 Board is a unique one,” Mitchell said. “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 25 centers that utilize Text-to-911 in Indiana. This year marks the second year of statewide Text-to-911 services available to all Hoosiers. During its first year, 173,213 text sessions occurred to and from dispatchers.
“It takes a uniquely qualified and trained person to handle the pressure and stress incurred when answering 911 calls,” said Ed Reuter, executive director of Statewide 911. “Telecommunicators answer calls every day from citizens who may experience one of the worst moments in their lives, yet it may be their bravest moment as well.”
On her tour, Mitchell said she will focus on learning about the training standards in each county. The Statewide 911 Board is reviewing and implementing new training procedures for dispatchers.
