This week, the Saint John Police Force is shining a spotlight on the critical, yet often unseen, work of its emergency telecommunicators. From April 12-18, 2026, the city recognizes National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, celebrating the professionals who are your first point of contact in a crisis.

These individuals, who operate the Public Safety Communications Centre (PSCC), are the calm and steady voices on the other end of the line during what might be the most difficult moments of your life. As noted in a media release from the Saint John Police, they are often called the “first, first responders.”

A Vital Link in Public Safety

The PSCC is more than just a call center; it is a vital hub for regional emergency services. Operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, these telecommunicators handle both emergency and non-emergency calls. They ensure that police officers and other first responders receive timely and accurate information when every second counts.

Their ability to remain composed under pressure while managing complex and high-risk situations is essential to the effectiveness of emergency response throughout the community. Police Chief R.M. Bruce praised their work, stating, “We are extremely proud of the tireless dedication and commitment of our operators as we recognize them this week. They are the voices that often bring light to the darkest situation.”

More Than Just a City Service

The Saint John PSCC’s reach extends far beyond city limits. It serves as a Public Safety Answering Point for New Brunswick, managing regional 911 calls for an area stretching from St. Stephen to Sussex.

In addition to serving the Saint John Police, the center provides dispatch services for the Saint John Fire Department and 31 other fire departments across the region. Whether they are guiding someone through a high-stress emergency or answering a general inquiry, these operators consistently demonstrate professionalism and compassion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week?

It is an annual event, observed this year from April 12-18, dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the dispatchers and call-takers who serve as the first point of contact in emergencies.

What is the Public Safety Communications Centre (PSCC)?

The PSCC in Saint John is the 24/7 communications hub that handles emergency and non-emergency calls for the police and fire departments. Its operators dispatch first responders and provide a critical link between the public and emergency services.

What areas does the Saint John PSCC serve?

The center handles 911 calls for a large region in New Brunswick, from St. Stephen to Sussex. It also provides dispatch services for the Saint John Police, Saint John Fire Department, and 31 additional regional fire departments.

Who are the “first, first responders”?

This term refers to public safety telecommunicators because they are the first to respond when a person calls for help in an emergency. They gather critical information and provide life-saving instructions before police, fire, or paramedics arrive on the scene.