Central Communications and 9-1-1 Center
The Communications Center is part of the Support Division and is under direct supervision of a division commander, typically a lieutenant. Communications is staffed by 6 full-time dispatchers along with part-time personnel. Typically there are two dispatchers on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Enhanced 9-1-1 System
Also known as a Public Safety Answering Point or "PSAP" the Communications Center operates an enhanced 9-1-1 system. This means that all 9-1-1 calls received at this PSAP are displayed to a computer screen. The information available to a dispatcher will typically include the name, address and telephone number of the owner of the property and a list of those emergency services, i.e. police, fire and ambulance, that respond to that location.
The system is designed to speed the response to emergencies. The dispatcher does not need to solicit the information that is already displayed. In many instances callers are emotionally charged, which can consume valuable time. In every instance however, a dispatcher will verify the information with the caller to ensure that a response is made to the actual location of the emergency. It is not uncommon to receive a 9-1-1 call from an individual who had been speaking with a relative living in another town, when suddenly that relative falls ill and needs medical assistance.
Hangup or Misdial 9-1-1 Calls
This PSAP does receive a number of 9-1-1 calls where the caller disconnects with the dispatcher before speaking with anyone. The majority of these hang-up calls are by error but in some instances are discovered to be true emergencies. It is important for the caller to stay on the line in the event of an error. The call can only be disconnected by the dispatcher who will need to gain as much information about the call before passing it along to patrol officers. The policy of the Newton Police Department is that we will investigate every hang-up 9-1-1 call to ensure that no emergency exists. In those instances where calls are received in those areas for which we provide 9-1-1 and dispatch services, the appropriate law enforcement agency is notified immediately.
Emergency Call Handling
Every dispatcher receives special training in receiving and handling emergency calls. Each is also trained in providing emergency medical instructions over the phone to individuals who can or are willing to try to assist in a medical emergency or other hazardous condition. The Communications Center utilizes approved Emergency Medical Guide Cards in providing such instructions. To date these emergency protocols have been used successfully in medical emergencies involving heart attacks, stroke, shock, allergic reactions and childbirth.
The Communications Center is operated by civilian personnel who are required to attain certain certifications and levels of training before being qualified to operate the communications desk. At a minimum an individual receives:
- 40 Hours Basic Public Safety Telecommunicator Course
- 32 Hours Emergency Medical Dispatch
- 8 Hours CPR/AED Training
Once training is completed a dispatcher will be assigned to a veteran dispatcher for field training where the skills learned through basic training are refined and applied to real life situations. Several full and part-time dispatchers have additional certifications and training as fire fighters and emergency medical technicians and are part of local emergency service organizations in their own communities.
Communities Served
The Communications Center processes an average of over 20,000 calls per year and serves the following municipalities:
- Borough of Branchville
- Frankford Township
- Fredon Township
- Hampton Township
- Town of Newton
- Montague Township
- Sandyston Township
Our Agencies
We supply direct dispatch service for the following agencies:
- Newton Police Department
- Newton Fire Department
- Newton First Aid Squad
- Branchville Fire Department
- Frankford Fire Department
- Fredon Fire Department
- Hampton Fire Department
- Montague Fire Department
- Sandyston Fire Department
- Fredon First Aid Squad
- Hampton First Aid Squad
- Blue Ridge Rescue Squad
- Frankford First Responders
- Newton Department of Public Works
- Newton Water and Sewer Utility
- Newton Parking Authority
- Newton Office of Emergency Management
- Wantage Animal Control
We also process requests for a variety of other resources such as:
