National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is observed annually during the second week of April. In 2026, it will take place from April 11 through April 18—a time dedicated to recognizing the critical role public safety telecommunicators play in emergency response.
The observance began in 1981 when a California dispatcher established the week to raise awareness about the vital work of telecommunicators. In 1991, Congress formally recognized it through a proclamation signed by President Bill Clinton, designating the second full week of April as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
“During this week, we honor the dedication and hard work of our EPSO telecommunications team, including dispatchers, call-takers, dispatch technicians, trainers, and all public safety telecommunicators who respond when called upon,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “As we celebrate alongside the grand reopening of our Regional Communications Center, we recognize these professionals as the true ‘first’ first responders, the calm in the storm, and the voice of compassion for our community.
“In 2025, their extraordinary efforts were reflected in an average 911 call answer time of just 7.29 seconds, with 89.59% of calls answered within 15 seconds, and nearly 285,000 calls for service processed across law enforcement, fire, and medical emergencies. To our unseen heroes behind the console, thank you for your service. Your commitment, kindness, and professionalism save lives and help keep our law enforcement officers and first responders safer every day. We are truly grateful.”
In summer 2025, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office announced the grand reopening of its Regional Communications Center, a major milestone in regional public safety communications. Originally constructed in 2012, the center serves as the hub for emergency services across unincorporated El Paso County.
The Regional Communications Center handles both emergency (911) and non-emergency calls for unincorporated El Paso County and all municipalities within the county except Colorado Springs. It provides dispatch services for eight law enforcement agencies, 20 fire agencies, and a growing number of specialized response teams.
Technological advancements have improved efficiency and response times. Enhanced Emergency Call Back technology resolved 799 abandoned wireless 911 calls through automated text messaging without requiring call-taker intervention, while an interface with Alarm Service Answering Points allowed 2,781 alarms to be processed electronically.
In 2025, the Communications Center managed more than 77,500 emergency (911) calls, over 134,000 administrative calls, and placed more than 50,500 outbound calls to assist residents. Text-to-911 services enabled 379 individuals to reach emergency services when voice calls were not possible. Emergency Medical Dispatchers also provided pre-arrival instructions, which resulted in 10 lives being saved and assisted in the delivery of 11 babies.
