Crucial and lifesaving work being done in our community and beyond will be celebrated later this month.
National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is April 14th through the 20th, with OPSEU/SEFPO Local 449 President Liam Vanderbraak telling myFM that the unsung heroes of Renfrew’s Central Ambulance Communicators Centre are the “backbone of emergency response in the County of Renfrew, Township of South Algonquin, and the eastern part of Algonquin Park.”
He adds that “their expertise and commitment ensure the safety and well-being of our community, regardless of the challenges they face,” while managing 9-1-1 calls for two paramedic services and 15 fire departments across an expansive 16,000-square-kilometre region that is nearly three times the size of Prince Edward Island.
Union Vice-President David Danone says the special week comes as Renfrew’s CACC is on the cusp of a transition to the new Medical Dispatch Priority System, which will further enhance their capability to deliver an elevated level of care and support to the community.
Danone says our local dispatchers are “more than ready for this transition; they have continuously demonstrated their readiness to adapt and excel, ensuring the highest standard of service in life-saving situations.”
Treasurer Katie Scheel notes that the Renfrew CACC’s employees bring a cumulative experience of 149 years to the role, and “the dedication and professionalism of our ACOs ensure that every second counts in emergency response. Their role is crucial in preserving life and property.”
OPSEU/SEFPO Local 449 is encouraging our community to show gratitude for the indispensable role of local ambulance communications officers, which you can do over the course of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week through email.
(written by Kasey Egan)
