To The Editor:

Every April, I write to The Bee and our community to publicly thank the staff at the Newtown Emergency Communications Center (ECC). My team of nine professionals works through storms, accidents, disputes, fires, and medical emergencies — situations that prompt a call to 9-1-1 or one of our routine lines.

These dedicated men and women serve 24/7 — weekends, holidays, days, and nights — regardless of the weather or what may be happening in their own lives. They are accountable not only for their actions, but also for their tone, professionalism, and interactions with the responders we work alongside: Police, Fire, EMS, Public Works, Animal Control, and, of course, the public.

We are an independent unit within the Police Department, with our own budget and specialized training, always ready to respond. When you call 9-1-1, we are the voice meant to calm you during one of the worst moments of your life. Our staff has provided life-saving instructions — how to perform CPR on adults and children, control bleeding, give rescue breaths, and administer Narcan. We have comforted frightened children, reassured panicked parents of missing children, and guided drivers through the aftermath of accidents.

April 12-18 marks National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, which recognizes those behind the headset — just as Police Week honors officers, EMS Week honors emergency medical personnel, and International Firefighters’ Day honors firefighters.

We are often the unsung heroes, and that is okay. We know that without us — the first of the first responders — help cannot reach those in need. Our mission is simple: to get help where it is needed and to ensure responders return home safely.

So, happy Telecommunicators Week to my staff and to all Public Safety Telecommunicators across the 105 Public Safety Answering Points in Connecticut.

Maureen A. Will

Director NECC