The Des Moines Emergency Communications Center is on a mission to hire 7-9 public safety telecommunicators in response to a record-breaking year of emergency calls, exceeding 492,800 in 2023. This figure represents the highest volume of calls in a decade, with an increase of over 24,500 calls compared to 2022, showcasing the growing demands on public safety services. Public Safety Telecommunications Supervisor Katie McGhee expressed the rewarding aspects of dispatching, as each call is an opportunity to assist individuals in their most critical moments. Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert emphasized that dispatchers are crucial to the public safety system, providing essential guidance and support to callers during emergencies. The application window for these vital roles is open until February 15, 2024, and potential candidates can access more details on the city’s job portal.

Des Moines Fire Department Chief John TeKippe highlighted the life-saving contributions dispatchers make, such as providing CPR instructions over the phone and relaying crucial medical information to first responders. This initiative reflects the city’s commitment to bolstering its emergency response capabilities and ensuring community safety. The recruitment of telecommunicators is not just a hiring effort; it is a recognition of the indispensable role they play in the well-being of Des Moines residents and visitors alike.