Department of Public Safety Communications

Published 4th October 2004, 12:0am

Contact: Courtney McCarron
202.833.9600
mccarronc@apco911.org.

APCO HONORS PUBLIC SAFETY PROFESSIONALS SUFFERING FROM RECENT STORM DAMAGE

Washington , D.C. ( Sept. 30, 2004 ) - The Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials today recognized the work of the public safety communications professionals in the southeastern U.S. and the Cayman Islands during the recent storm activity in those areas. “All first responders, including public safety telecommunicators, are relied upon to protect our citizens in times of emergency. The recent tragedies of Charley , Frances , Ivan and Jeanne demonstrate that emergency communications personnel will be there for our communities even when their families and personal property are at risk - a sign of true professionalism and commitment,” the statement from APCO International President Greg Ballentine said. “While the storms have diminished, the impact on public safety in the affected areas will continue for weeks.” APCO International recognizes that the work of public safety telecommunicators and emergency responders is most often noticed during tragedies such as the recent hurricanes. APCO International, however, encourages the public to acknowledge the work of their local first responders not only in this time of recovery, but everyday as they work to help preserve the public’s safety. Several APCO International members and public safety communications agencies are supporting the work of the burdened agencies by collecting and distributing money for those affected by the storms’ aftermath. In particular, the Montgomery County (MD) Department of Police 9-1-1 Emergency Communications Center and the APCO Florida Chapter have made contributions to the agencies. In addition, the APCO International Atlantic Chapter made a contribution to the Cayman Islands , which was hit by Hurricane Ivan.

About APCO International

The Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials International, Inc. is the world’s oldest and largest professional organization dedicated to the enhancement of public safety communications. APCO serves the professional needs of its 17,000 members worldwide by creating a platform for setting professional standards, addressing professional issues and providing education, products and services for people who manage, operate, maintain and supply the communications systems used by police, fire and emergency medical dispatch agencies throughout the world. For more information, visit www.apco911.org.