Dispatchers being honored during safety telecommunicators week

The Washington State University Police Department is recognizing dispatchers of Whitcom 9-1-1 during National Telecommunicators Week.

Through Saturday, operators across the U.S. will be honored for their highly difficult work and unwavering dedication, according to a news release by WSU police.

Dispatchers play a critical role in emergency response, coordinating first responders and lifesaving efforts within communities, the news release said.

They are first to provide crucial assistance, reassuring and supporting people in emergencies while officers, firefighters or medics arrive.

The local dispatching agency, Whitcom 9-1-1, impacts the well-being of residents, students, employees and visitors, according to the news release.