Being a 911 telecommunicator can be stressful and even thankless at times.
Telecommunicator Chrystal Jenkins says, "We don't ask to be thanked, we don't do this job for a pat on the back or to be the shining stars. We do this because this is what we love, and we love helping our community."
The job is about a lot more than answering phones. These people can be the link to people and information that could save your life. Jenkins says certain calls are harder than others. She says, "Anything dealing with children is particularly rough."
Director Mike Davis knows how stressful the job can be. That's why Cabell County 911 is saying a big thanks and giving more than a pat on the back to its employees this week. They're joining thousand across the country for national Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Davis says, "They work hard every day and it's fun just to take a week to try to enjoy it while they're still doing their job, and tell them we do appreciate what they do on a day-to-day basis."
Each day has a different theme. Monday was patriotic day, and workers dressed in their best interpretations. They'll also have superhero day and 80s day.
Jenkins says, "We love being here for people, and we love having fun, so if we get to mix the two, it's great!"
Davis says they'll wrap up the week with a family picnic for employees and an awards ceremony to recognize extraordinary efforts this year.
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Darrah Wilcox
