TRAINING AND SEMINAR PROGRAM

Telecommunicators are the citizen's "link" to emergency services. Training on the use of the 9-1-1 equipment is necessary to assuring that the link is effective. As a part of its goal, GHC 9-1-1 provides both a comprehensive training and enrichment program for telecommunicators and supervisors, utilizing GHC 9-1-1 trainers and outside professional speakers.

TRAINING ON 9-1-1 EQUIPMENT

GHC 9-1-1 provides on-going training for new telecommunicators working within the Network's territory, on the Vesta/Orion Mapstar, as well as training for supervisors on the MagIC reporting system. The Network also provides on-going training for new PSAPs, and new telecommunicators, as well as training for upgrades and feature enhancements. All of the 9-1-1 equipment training is scheduled in the Network's training center and taught by a team of instructors. In 2001, the Network began providing enhanced TTY communications and deaf and hard of hearing training. In 2002, the Network started providing training for the Automatic Crash Notification program, as well as updated information on the Wireless Phase II cellular documentation. These courses have proven successful and will continue as regular scheduled training courses. The Network's training program also includes 9-1-1 call center visits by the Network's training instructors.

SEMINAR PROGRAM

A minimum of six professional seminars is sponsored by GHC 9-1-1 each year to provide education and enrichment sessions to telecommunicators, dispatchers, and supervisors throughout the Network's territory. The topics cover a variety of issues, including liability, stress management, handling of difficult calls, disaster situations, etc. The seminar program is a voluntary one for jurisdictions, and over the last several years, has been highly attended. Attendees receive law enforcement (TCLEOSE) credits; jurisdictions pay a nominal fee for their personnel to participate in these seminars, with GHC 9-1-1 underwriting the remainder of the cost. The program provides opportunities that many public safety personnel have not been afforded in the past; evaluations of these seminars attest to their value.