RICHMOND, VA — The Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) proudly recognizes National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, observed April 12–18, 2026. This annual event honors the dedicated professionals who serve as the critical link between the public and emergency services. In 2025, Virginias 9-1-1 telecommunicators answered over 4 million 9-1-1 calls. Whether managing day-to-day crises or large-scale incidents, these teams work tirelessly behind the scenes, stepping up during the toughest times and supporting each other every step of the way.
Public safety telecommunicators are often the first to respond in emergencies, providing vital information and support to both callers and emergency personnel. Their professionalism, compassion, and commitment ensure that help is dispatched swiftly and efficiently, often making the difference between life and death.
“Every day, Virginia’s public safety telecommunicators serve as the steady voice in moments of crisis providing reassurance, gathering critical information, and ensuring help is on the way,” said VDEM State Coordinator John Scrivani. “During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, we recognize their professionalism, dedication, and the vital role they play in keeping our communities safe across the commonwealth.”
VDEM would like to specifically recognize our Situational Awareness Unit telecommunicators who assist in coordinating state resources to aid localities during public safety emergencies.
VDEM encourages all Virginians to express their gratitude to the telecommunicators who serve our communities with dedication and excellence.
For more on the history of NPSTW, please visit NPSTW
