Full Notification

The Wilmington Police Department is joining agencies across the country in observing National Public Safety Telecommunications Week from April 14-20.
 
Each year dating back to 1981, agencies have set aside a week to recognize telecommunications personnel in the public safety community across the country.
 
The Wilmington Police Department’s 9-1-1 Center is staffed by 38 employees and supervisors who work to provide 24-hour coverage to answer 9-1-1 calls and dispatch police officers.
 
In 2018, over 272,000 calls were answered by call takers, averaging 14,000 calls per operator. Additionally, dispatches average 4,500 logged complaints each year. Call takers and dispatchers are supported by five supervisors who manage the team, fill in when needed and provide continuous training.
 
“The team includes dedicated professionals who work in a fast-paced environment to field calls and ensure that help is on the way for any resident or visitor who calls,” said Lt. Amy Rausch, commander of the WPD Communications Division. “I appreciate the work they do on a daily basis.”
 
Chief Robert J. Tracy commended each member of the team for their efforts to support both callers and police officers on a daily basis.
 
“Our highly-trained call takers and dispatchers provide a critical link between someone who needs help, and the resources we deploy to support them,” said Chief Tracy. “They regularly handle stressful and difficult situations, and show great professionalism in talking with callers and gathering the necessary information to accurately dispatch police.”
 
Chief Tracy added, “thanks to this team, those who need help in Wilmington can know that someone will be there on the other end of the phone, ready to provide assistance.”