Oregon Honors the ‘First First Responders’ During Telecommunicators Week

In a formal proclamation, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has designated this week as Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, casting a spotlight on the critical, often unseen, work of 9-1-1 call-takers and dispatchers across the state.

The annual recognition honors the professionals who serve as the vital first link in the emergency response chain. From frantic calls about wildfires in the Deschutes National Forest to medical emergencies in Portland neighborhoods, these telecommunicators are tasked with gathering crucial information, providing life-saving instructions, and coordinating the deployment of police, fire, and medical units—all while managing extreme stress.

“These individuals are truly our first first responders,” said a statement from the Governor’s office. “Their calm, skilled voices are the first that Oregonians hear in their most desperate moments. This week, we express our profound gratitude for their dedication to keeping our communities safe.”

The proclamation arrives as Oregon’s emergency communication centers, like many nationwide, face challenges including staffing shortages and the increasing complexity of calls. Technology plays a growing role, with many centers now equipped to receive text messages, photos, and video, adding new layers to the telecommunicator’s role.

Local agencies, including the Oregon State Police, county sheriff’s offices, and municipal fire departments, are using the week to publicly thank their dispatch teams. They encourage all Oregonians to take a moment to appreciate these essential workers who answer the call day and night, ensuring help is on the way when seconds count most.