MPUC Announces First Mandatory Training Course for E 9-1-1 Dispatchers--Begins Dec. 14th
December 10, 2009
Maine Public Utilities Commission
News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Augusta, ME — Beginning Monday December 14th, the Maine Public Utilities Commission’s, Emergency Services Communications Bureau (Enhanced 9-1-1 program) will host the state’s first mandatory basic training course for public safety dispatchers. “The Commission is pleased to announce this important training,” stated Commission Chair Sharon Reishus. “The curriculum was carefully chosen and the training will help our emergency communicators carry out their responsibilities effectively and safely.”
The 40-hour course is the minimum mandatory training standard for all newly hired full-time dispatchers at all dispatch centers (both PSAPS and local dispatch centers). Dispatchers hired after 1 Jan. 2008 must successfully complete the prescribed course within the first 12 months of employment. Twenty dispatchers have registered for the class to be held at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy in Vassalboro.
The course is funded by the Enhanced 9-1-1 surcharge; there will be no charges to attendees for tuition or, materials. The nationally recognized curriculum features comprehensive content, multimedia presentations, and hands-on training on such topics as roles and responsibilities of the emergency telecommunicator, emergency telecommunication technologies, caller management, police, medical and fire call classification, radio broadcast procedures, and legal issues. Instructors are experienced public safety dispatchers who have successfully completed an instructor certification program authorized by the National Academy of Emergency Dispatch. Following completion of this course, dispatchers will return to their local agencies where they will continue on-the-job training.
For more information or to schedule a visit to the training program, contact Evelyn deFrees at the numbers/emails below.
The Maine Public Utilities Commission regulates electric, telephone, water and gas utilities to ensure that Maine citizens have access to safe and reliable utility service at rates that are just and reasonable for all ratepayers. Commission programs include Maine Enhanced 911 Service, Dig Safe, and Efficiency Maine.
Contact: Evelyn deFrees, 207-287-6141 evelyn.defrees@maine.gov
