The week of April 12th through April 18th, 2026, is recognized as National Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Week, a time set aside each year to formally honor the hard work, dedication, and vital contributions of Telecommunicators and Call-Takers.
Telecommunications personnel serve as a critical lifeline for every emergency department. In Wayne County, 911 operations are based within the Fairfield Police Department, handling emergency calls for the Fairfield Police, Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, Fairfield City Fire and Fairfield Rural Fire Departments, Wayne County Ambulance, Wayne City Fire and Ambulance, as well as Cisne, Mt. Erie, and Orchardville Fire Departments. Additionally, the Illinois State Police Troop 9 Telecommunications Center in DuQuoin provides call-handling support for Wayne and surrounding counties.
These dedicated professionals answer call after call, day and night, guiding citizens and first responders through emergencies that can mean the difference between life and death. Telecommunicators are often the unseen and unsung heroes of emergency services, required to possess extensive knowledge and shoulder immense responsibility. Their voices and actions are a steady guide in the most trying circumstances, impacting lives on a daily basis.
As National Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Week is observed, the community is encouraged to recognize and appreciate the invaluable service provided by these essential personnel who are always ready to respond in times of crisis.