Recognizing East Texas Telecommunicators During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

ETCOG Public Safety • April 6, 2022

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week — April 10 through 16

female dispatcher wearing headset looking at computer map

ETCOG, in its capacity as the primary planning and coordinating entity for Emergency 9-1-1 Communications in East Texas, will honor the region's more than 140 emergency telecommunicators during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week — April 10 through 16 — and encourages local jurisdictions to participate in recognizing the services and dedication of those answering 9-1-1 calls.

In Texas, public safety telecommunicators act as our "unseen first responders," serving our communities and helping save lives every day. Texas Governor Greg Abbott also proclaimed the week as Public Safety Telecommunicators Week to recognize their contributions as first responders.

“ETCOG would like to acknowledge all Public Safety Telecommunicators. You are the first line of defense at the beginning of an incident, serve to protect life and property, and help maintain calm during uncertainty. Thank you for your invaluable service,” said ETCOG’s Director of Public Safety Stephanie Heffner.

In the ETCOG region, emergency telecommunicators answer nearly 211,000 calls and 4,205 texts a year. To celebrate, ETCOG will distribute gift bags to our regional telecommunicators throughout the month.

Learn about the ETCOG 9-1-1 planning and emergency services here.

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Recognizing National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, April 12–18, 2026

By ETCOG Public Safety • April 1, 2026

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, observed April 12–18, 2026 , honors the dedication, service, and sacrifice of the public safety telecommunicators who answer the call when emergencies happen. Held each year during the second week of April, the observance recognizes the professionals who serve as the critical first point of contact in emergency situations. At ETCOG, we are proud to recognize the telecommunicators who serve communities across our region. Their work requires professionalism, compassion, quick thinking, and a steadfast commitment to public safety. In moments of crisis, they provide calm, skilled support and help connect people to the emergency services they need. In 2025 , telecommunicators in ETCOG’s service area answered more than 174,000 9-1-1 calls and more than 20,000 9-1-1 texts . Behind each of those numbers is a person in need of help and a trained telecommunicator ready to respond. ETCOG supports the region’s dispatch offices through training, equipment upgrades, and management of the regional 9-1-1 system. These efforts help ensure telecommunicators have the tools, technology, and resources needed to serve the public effectively and efficiently. During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, we extend our sincere appreciation to the men and women who help keep our communities safe every day. Their work is essential, and their service makes a meaningful difference throughout East Texas.