43-5031.00 · Task explorer
Public Safety Telecommunicators: reported tasks and exploration worksheet
Operate telephone, radio, or other communication systems to receive and communicate requests for emergency assistance at 9-1-1 public safety answering points and emergency operations centers. Take information from the public and other sources regarding crimes, threats, disturbances, acts of terrorism, fires, medical emergencies, and other public safety matters. May coordinate and provide information to law enforcement and emergency response personnel. May access sensitive databases and other information sources as needed. May provide additional instructions to callers based on knowledge of and certification in law enforcement, fire, or emergency medical procedures.
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This source lists 18 tasks, including 16 marked Core and 2 marked Supplemental. Labels and dates are retained below. Employers can combine or divide these responsibilities differently; explore the task itself before assuming it belongs in every version of the role.
Task source dates: 08/2023.
18 tasks shown
Core · Task 2719 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Provide emergency medical instructions to callers.
Core · Task 2707 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Question callers to determine their locations and the nature of their problems to determine type of response needed.
Core · Task 2705 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Determine response requirements and relative priorities of situations, and dispatch units in accordance with established procedures.
Core · Task 2711 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Receive incoming telephone or alarm system calls regarding emergency and non-emergency police and fire service, emergency ambulance service, information, and after-hours calls for departments within a city.
Core · Task 2710 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Relay information and messages to and from emergency sites, to law enforcement agencies, and to all other individuals or groups requiring notification.
Core · Task 2706 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Record details of calls, dispatches, and messages.
Core · Task 2715 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Monitor various radio frequencies, such as those used by public works departments, school security, and civil defense, to stay apprised of developing situations.
Core · Task 2717 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Read and effectively interpret small-scale maps and information from a computer screen to determine locations and provide directions.
Core · Task 2712 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Maintain access to, and security of, highly sensitive materials.
Core · Task 2708 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Enter, update, and retrieve information from teletype networks and computerized data systems regarding such things as wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registration, and stolen vehicles.
Core · Task 2709 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Scan status charts and computer screens, and contact emergency response field units to determine emergency units available for dispatch.
Core · Task 2718 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Answer routine inquiries, and refer calls not requiring dispatches to appropriate departments and agencies.
Core · Task 2716 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Learn material and pass required tests for certification.
Core · Task 2713 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Observe alarm registers and scan maps to determine whether a specific emergency is in the dispatch service area.
Core · Task 2714 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Maintain files of information relating to emergency calls, such as personnel rosters and emergency call-out and pager files.
Core · Task 2721 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Test and adjust communication and alarm systems, and report malfunctions to maintenance units.
Supplemental · Task 2722 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Operate and maintain mobile dispatch vehicles and equipment.
Supplemental · Task 2720 · 08/2023 · Incumbent
Monitor alarm systems to detect emergencies, such as fires and illegal entry into establishments.
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Source and practice material
Occupational context uses the O*NET® 31.0 Database from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, under CC BY 4.0. View the occupation.
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