EPCSO EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS SECTION TO HOST A “TOWN HALL” MEETING 06-03-09 IN SAN ELIZARIO, TX

Sheriff’s Office Communications Section

 SAN ELIZARIO, TX- On Wednesday June 3rd, 2009 at 5:30 PM, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Communications Section will host a “Town Hall” meeting at the San Elizario Independent School District Administration Building located at 1050 Chicken Ranch Road San Elizario, TX. Sheriff’s Officials will be educating the San Elizario community the importance of 9-1-1 to include the do’s & don'ts. All in attendance will listen to an actual pre-recorded 9-1-1 call & may be asked to participate in a group discussion with Dispatch Operator’s to help understand the importance of 9-1-1.  

ALL MEDIA IS INVITED TO ATTEND. For more information, please contact Public Affairs Director Chris Acosta at (915) 538-2223.

9-1-1 Education

What is 9-1-1? 9-1-1 is an emergency telephone number used to call the Sheriff, Police,  Fire Department, or Ambulance. All 9-1-1 calls from home phones, payphones, and cell phones are free of charge.

When do I call 9-1-1? Only in a life threatening emergency. 9-1-1 is for emergencies only. An emergency is any serious incident where an officer, fire fighter, or emergency medical help is needed right away.

What if I am not sure if it is an emergency? If you don’t know, just dial 9-1-1. The operator is trained to determine if it is an emergency or not.

When not to dial 9-1-1. Don’t dial 9-1-1 as a joke. Don’t dial 9-1-1 to ask for a telephone number or for information. Someone that has a real emergency may need the operators help right away. Don’t dial 9-1-1 just to see if 9-1-1 is working or to set it as a speed dial.

When I dial 9-1-1 will they ask me for my citizenship? NO! The 9-1-1 operator will never ask anyone for their citizenship. Our priority is to help anyone who requires our services regardless of their citizenship.

Mission Statement

To strive and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors in our community by processing calls for service efficiently, professionally, courteously, appropriately, and compassionately, regardless of circumstances. Our priority is to quickly dispatch the proper agency to save lives and protect the public and their property in times of emergency and distress.

Dispatch Operator’s Code of Ethics

As a Pubic Safety Telecommunicator, I am dedicated to serve the public and Sheriffs Office; to safeguard life and property, to assist all public safety vehicles and personnel in the performance of their duties; assure that all rules and regulations which govern my position are not violated.

I will maintain a calm attitude during times of stress and emergencies; develop self control and be mindful of the welfare of others, regardless of race, creed, age, or religion. I will obey the laws of the land, rules, and regulations of the federal communications  commission and policies of the Sheriff’s Office.

I will demonstrate professional excellence through leadership, cooperation, and dedication serving the public.

Whatever confidential information I receive will be revealed only in the official performance of my duties.

I will exhibit honesty and integrity through ethical behavior. I will not act selfishly or unofficially or let my personal feelings, friendships, prejudices or animosity influence my decisions.

I will strive to achieve those objectives and ideals, which govern my profession, dedicating myself, to my chosen profession, Public Safety Telecommunications.

     C.A.L.E.A. Accredited March 15th, 2008