Overview
The Roswell 911 Emergency Communications Center is a division within the Roswell Police Department that provides dispatch and E911 services for the City of Roswell. The Center is staffed with civilian personnel working together as 911 call-takers, law enforcement and Fire/EMS dispatchers, trainers, supervisors, administrators, managers, and systems staff.
The Roswell 911 Center is available 24/7 to answer emergency and non-emergency calls for police, fire, and EMS services. Our highly trained communications professionals handle more than 100,000 calls each year, helping ensure fast, accurate responses when it matters most.
The center operates using advanced dispatch and mapping technology and meets nationally recognized public safety standards. Accredited by CALEA and recognized statewide for excellence, the Roswell 911 Center is committed to keeping our community safe—every call, every day.
As a caller you should expect to answer the following basic questions:
- Where is the situation happening? (address, building, intersection, etc.)
- What is happening (car crash, house fire, injured subject)
- Who is involved (including how many & descriptions, calling party involvement)
- When did it happen (something old or a situation in progress)
The call-taker may repeat back certain information including the address or phone number. It is important for you, the caller, to remain as calm as possible and allow the 911 operator to direct the conversation. This will ensure the quickest and most appropriate response.
In this age of smart phones, it can be tough knowing exactly where you are when you call 911. Under normal circumstances, a Roswell 911 operator can pinpoint your location only to the nearest tower that your wireless phone connected to. If you do not know an address near you, look for landmarks, signs and buildings. Even the name of the closest business can be used to help determine your exact location.
Anytime you need immediate assistance from law enforcement, EMS, or the fire department. 911 should not be used to ask about traffic conditions, directions, or for general information. The non-emergency line for the Police Department is: (770) 640-4100.
Don't hang up!
Have an adult explain to the 911 operator what happened. If the line has already been disconnected, make sure to answer the phone when it rings. It is most likely the 911 operator calling you back.
Once you have dialed 911 on your cell phone, it may place itself in “emergency mode.” This should prevent any incoming calls or texts other than a return call from dispatch, in case of a dropped call. Contact your service provider for more information about how this feature works on your phone.
It is important to teach kids the proper use of 911. It could be your life they save. Give them scenarios and quiz them on their address and other information so they will be comfortable telling the 911 operator. Consider unplugging the phone and have them actually press the numbers. Cell phones are all different, but many have a feature to bypass the keypad lock for emergency calls. Make sure kids know specifically what buttons to press to complete a call. Make it a habit, like changing the batteries in your smoke detectors. Stress the importance of only calling when it is a true emergency (fire vs argument with little brother) and what to do if they call accidentally.
Code of Ethics
As a Public Safety Telecommunicator, I regard myself as a model to the community and department that I serve. I will show reverence for the fundamental freedoms safeguarded by the Constitution of the United States. I am individually accountable for reflecting model values in my professional and personal life. I acknowledge respect for human life above all else. I will exhibit honesty and integrity through ethical behavior.
I will demonstrate professional excellence through leadership, cooperation and dedication to serving the public. I recognize diversity among the members of communities and departments, allowing for fair and open access to services. As a Public Safety Telecommunicator, there is recognition of the honor of my office that is a symbol of public faith.
911 Operator Recruitment
If you are looking for a rewarding job at the forefront of public safety, a career with the Roswell Police Department as a Roswell 911 Operator may be for you.