Honoring Our Hidden Heroes: Celebrating National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

Since its inception in 1981, National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week has been a time to recognize the skilled professionals who serve as the critical first link in emergency response—the men and women of our Regional Communications Centers (RCCs). This week, the Idaho State Police joins agencies nationwide in celebrating this important event.

ISP operates two Regional Communications Centers across Idaho:

• RCC North, located in Coeur d’Alene, provides dispatch services for District 1 in Northern Idaho and District 2 in Central Idaho.
• RCC South, located in Meridian, serves District 3 in Western Idaho, District 4 in Southern Idaho, District 5 in Southeastern Idaho, and District 6 in Eastern Idaho.

These centers are staffed by highly dedicated Regional Communications Officers (RCOs) on duty 24/7, often working behind the scenes. They are the calm voice in a storm, expertly screening and prioritizing calls, dispatching emergency units, ensuring officer safety, and coordinating events until resolution. They handle every call with precision, patience, and professionalism, even when callers are experiencing the worst moments of their lives.

“The dedication and composure of our RCOs cannot be overstated,” said Major Shawn Staley, who oversees ISP’s RCC operations statewide. “They are the calm during the chaos, the steady voice our troopers rely on, and the lifeline for those in distress. It’s not just a job—it’s a calling, and we are grateful for the critical work they do.”

Dispatching for ISP is a rewarding and challenging career that requires excellent interpersonal skills, strong memory, and the ability to work under pressure. RCOs manage emergency radio traffic, relay time-sensitive information, and interact with individuals from all backgrounds, many in crisis or under the influence of stress, alcohol, or drugs. Their ability to handle these challenges with grace and professionalism is truly commendable.

Accuracy, brevity, and clarity are the foundation of our communications, and these principles guide every message relayed across the state. Success, speed, and safety remain the goals of every shift.

We honor these professionals during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week and thank our ISP dispatchers. Your commitment, strength, and professionalism help keep Idaho safe. Your work saves lives, prevents crimes, and ensures the safety of our communities. We are deeply grateful for your service.

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Posted in District 1 - Northern Idaho, District 2 - Central Idaho, District 3 - Western Idaho, District 4 - Southern Idaho, District 5 - Southeastern Idaho, District 6 - Eastern Idaho