By Pat Culverhouse

When there’s an emergency, a voice is often the only connection between the public and the responders who will be answering that call. Those faceless voices are what often makes a difference.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker called dispatchers “…a vital part of  law enforcement teams across this country and we want to give them the special recognition they deserve.”

Dispatchers received their well-deserved attention during the recent National Public Safety Telecommunications Week. Parker said this special group of deputies in his telecommunications office earn respect daily, unseen and without fanfare.

“They work behind the scenes 24/7, mostly unknown to the public, but when a citizen calls our office, a dispatcher may be the only contact with a deputy that person has,” he said.

Many calls coming into the office are unpleasant, dealing with tragedies that may include serious accidents, violent acts or even death. Parker said a calm voice can often mean reassurance during a critical time.

“Our dispatchers are the first voice a caller hears, and we know they are often a lifeline to not only our citizens, but to our deputies as well,” he said.

When deputies are responding to calls for assistance, information from the dispatcher is critical.

“They’re the backbone of our department. We cannot perform our duties without them,” Parker said. “They inform us of the situation clearly, calmly and professionally. We depend on them, and they deliver.”

Dispatchers received special treatment during their special week, Parker said.

“We planned special treats, fed them and gave them special recognition,” he said. “They have earned respect and deserve our appreciation. They are our connection with the public.”