National Dispatchers Recognition Week April 12-18

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - April 12-18 is designated as National Telecommunicators Recognition Week, a time to honor the 911 dispatchers for their ongoing dedication to their communities.

The dispatch team covers the town 24/7 every day of the year and provides emergency and non-emergency coverage and helps the public and first responders with the resources they need.

The South Lake Tahoe team dispatches for the South Lake Tahoe Police Department, South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue, Lake Valley Fire Protection District, Cal Tahoe Medics and Fallen Leaf Fire Department.

"It is a stressful and demanding job that doesn't get the recognition it deserves," said Dispatch Supervisor Melissa Dube as she wanted her nine-member staff honored for what they do each and every day. "Thank you for your continued dedication to the community and keeping our fellow police officers, firefighters, and medical personnel safe!"

911 dispatcher duties include responding to both 911 and non-emergency calls while dispatching appropriate resources. With an average of 300 to 400 calls going into dispatch each month in South Lake Tahoe, the staff has to be ready to handle an emergency at every moment through their shift which is normally 10 hours long, though they can be up to 12 hours.