Behind the Call
Public Safety Communications 9-1-1: April 2026
Every year, during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, often called Telecommunications Week, we pause to recognize a group of professionals whose voices are often heard, but whose faces are rarely seen.
This week is more than a formality, it’s a reminder your role is critical. Most people will never really understand what it’s like to sit in that chair, take those calls, and carry that responsibility for an entire shift, but we do, and it matters.
During Telecommunicator Week, we slow down for a second and recognize what you all do every day.Our administrative staff coordinates with vendors to provide catered meals and swag, because some swag can be just the rage. Each year a different theme is selected by either the Telecommunicators or staff. This year our theme was PSC Rescue Ranch in which our very own Information and Public Safety Coordinator, Ruth Shear, had a good ‘ole time being clever. I enjoyed our wanted pictures the most as I think she brought the best out of us. Thank you, Ruth, for everything.
A week isn’t enough to recognize a lot of you have been putting in long hours, picking up overtime, and coming in on your days off without much notice. That’s a big ask, and you’ve continued to step up anyway. That kind of consistency and reliability is what keeps everything running, even when we’re exhausted and stretched thin.
There’s no sugarcoating it, being short staffed puts pressure on everyone. It means fewer breaks, heavier workloads, and less time to reset between calls. I see it, and I know it takes a toll. At the same time, the way you’ve handled it, showing up, doing the job well, and supporting each other, says a lot about the kind of team we have.
Please know that efforts are actively underway to recruit, hire, and train new Telecommunicators so that relief is on the way. Building a strong, capable team takes time, but it is a priority, and we are committed to getting there as quickly as possible without compromising the quality this role demands. The goal is to get you some relief and build the kind of staffing level that gives you breathing room again.
In the meantime, what you’re doing right now matters more than you probably hear. The work isn’t always visible and it doesn’t always get recognized the way it should, but it has a real impact on people every single day.
I appreciate the effort, the extra time, and the way you’ve stuck with it through a tough period. Thank you for continuing to show up for each other and for the community we serve.
April, or 911 Education Month, is a crucial initiative aimed at raising awareness about the emergency response system that serves as a lifeline during crises. This month emphasizes the vital role that understanding the 911 system plays in ensuring swift and effective emergency assistance. Having a family prepared with knowledge of how the 911 system operates can be the difference between life and death. In an emergency, every second counts.
Being well-informed about what information to provide and how to communicate effectively with dispatchers can significantly reduce response time. Families that understand the capabilities and limitations of the 911 system are better equipped to handle emergencies calmly and efficiently. It's essential to teach family members of all ages, from young children to seniors, about how to use 911 correctly. This includes knowing when to call, what information to provide, and how to stay calm during the process.
Tailoring this education to different age groups ensures that everyone is prepared to act appropriately in an emergency situation. To better equip your family, we recommend reviewing safety tips and watching instructional videos available on our webpage and social media channels. These resources are designed to help you teach and prepare your family members, enhancing their understanding and readiness. By investing time in education now, you can help ensure your family is ready to act swiftly and effectively when it matters most!
APRIL 2026 TECHNICAL SERVICES
CURRENT PROJECTS:
· Jorge and Carina are currently working with the Town of Fort Mill to set up a radio programming system over WI-FI.
· Carina attended the Spring Apco/Nena training at the Columbia Zoo with Carlton, Jordan, Cynthia, Carmen, Deronda, Whitney, and Captain. Presentations included how to handle international wireless callers, 911 contingency planning, and GPS location resources.
· John and Devyn attended the NCCOMMS2012 Full Scale Exercise in Hyde County Coastal Carolina with several NC Emergency Management and First Responder Agencies.
· Marvlis Server Upgrade was scheduled for April 21st.
· Carina assisted MCA at the Detention Center to upgrade and tune portable and mobile radios.
· Cache Equipment Deployments in April:
* York PD – Silver in the City Special Event
* Rock Hill Emergency Management – Come See Me Festival
* Fort Mill Fire Department – Strawberry Festival
Contributor: John Carter
I and Electronics Communications Technician, Devyn Fox, recently attended the Hyde County organized, “Hear in Hyde” Communications Exercise.
This was held from 4/9-4/12, 2026, and was a full-scale disaster simulation. This event allowed emergency personnel and students from across North Carolina to collaboratively test and strengthen communication capabilities. Devyn, and I were the only out-of-state attendees with CISCO working on the team alongside me. Exercises like this help to build stronger community response and we had a great time participating and wanted to thank Hyde County for their hospitality and professionalism.
Professional Standards April 2026
CALEA
York County Public Safety Communications is currently in the process of completing the Commission of Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) Year 2 evaluation. Over the last year, the Professional Standards team has collected the proofs needed to complete the assessment.
Thank you to everyone involved in gathering and completing the items needed to finalize the assessment.
FOIA
Freedom of Information Act is available to all responders and the general public.
Responders should email PSC@yorkcountysc.gov and include the Call for Service or Report number as well as the date, time and exact information needed (such as radio traffic, phone calls).
Any FOIA request from the public including Lawyer’s offices will need to utilize the link below.
