Tompkins County Honors Local Dispatchers During NPSTW 2025

Published on April 11, 2025

The Department of Emergency Response (DoER) will mark the second full week of April (April 13-19) as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

Sponsored by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International and observed annually, NPSTW honors the thousands of men and women who respond to emergency calls, dispatch emergency professionals and equipment, and render life-saving assistance.

In times of personal crisis and community-wide disasters, 9-1-1 dispatchers have emerged as the first and single point of contact for people who are seeking help.

In Tompkins County, staff at the Emergency Communications Center handle on average 35,000 emergency calls each year, and over 150,000 non-emergency calls, including quality of life, parking, and noise complaints. All law enforcement, fire and EMS departments within the County are dispatched through the ECC.

Michael Stitley, Director of Emergency Response, said “It’s an honor to recognize our 9-1-1 dispatchers for their hard work and dedication day in and day out to keep our communities safe.”

“The importance of recognizing the devotion and commitment of these dedicated professionals is immeasurable,” added John Halaychik, DoER Assistant Director - 9-1-1. “NPSTW is a time to celebrate and thank those who dedicate their lives to serving the public.”

As part of NPSTW, staff at the Department of Emergency Response will be recognized for their service, with the presentation of the Director’s Award and Dispatcher of the Year Award during a ceremony on April 17th.