For Immediate Release

Monday, April 9, 2018

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Bedford Police and Fire Departments Celebrate National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

BEDFORD — Police Chief Robert Bongiorno and Fire Chief David Grunes are pleased to announce the Bedford Police and Fire Departments are recognizing the town’s Emergency Communications Officers (ECOs) during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

During the week of April 8-14, public safety agencies nationwide take time to reflect on the critical role telecommunications professionals play in supporting the work of police officers and firefighters. Bedford’s eight ECOs are specially trained to use the town’s state of the art emergency dispatch center, which handles thousands of calls for service every year.

While their work is done outside of the view of the public, ECOs are an essential resource for both departments and serve as the first point of contact for members of the public seeking help in an emergency.

“Our dispatchers have to remain calm and steady and quickly collect important information in order to coordinate an appropriate response to any situation,” Chief Bongiorno said. “Their job is as important as any within our two departments, and we want to set aside time to thank them for their tireless commitment to our community.”

The celebration was first created by the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office in California as a way to honor the behind-the-scenes efforts of ECOs, who interact with community members during some of the most traumatic moments of their lives.

“Emergency Communications Officers bear an enormous responsibility, which they routinely handle with grace,” Chief Grunes said. “They are a lifeline for first responders and residents alike, and I’m grateful every day for their service.”

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