Sacramento, California - The Sacramento Police Department is proud to recognize the men and women of the Sacramento Police Department's Communications Center during National Dispatchers Week, April 14-20, 2013.  Congress formally proclaimed the second week of April as National Dispatchers week by H.J. Res 284. 

On Tuesday, April 9^th, 2013, Sacramento City Council issued a resolution recognizing National Dispatcher Week.  This resolution was presented to Sacramento Police dispatchers during open session. 

Since 1881, Sacramento Police dispatchers have been answering calls from the public.  In 2012, dispatchers answered 625,000 calls with over 168,000 of those were 9-1-1.  The week is marked by celebrations and recognition for public safety dispatchers throughout the nation.

Public safety dispatchers are one of the initial points of contact with the community during an emergency.  The dispatchers' role is crucial in gathering information, assessing, and deploying appropriate emergency response when time is of the essence.  The skills, knowledge, and dedication each dispatcher exhibits while assisting the public deserves recognition not only during this week of celebration, but throughout the year.  "Dispatchers are the calm voice at the other end of the line connecting the community to public safety in a time of need.  They serve a vital role in ensuring the safety of our community and police officers," said Deputy Chief Ken Bernard.