NCJ Number
78422
Editor(s)
K E Fieler
Date Published
1980
Length
137 pages
Annotation
This model procedures manual for police and fire dispatchers outlines policies and step-by-step procedures for dispatching and offers guidelines on developing a manual for any size department.
Abstract
An overview of current police and fire dispatching systems reveals the increasing use of civilian dispatchers which has created problems of high turnover and inadequate training. Written procedure manuals can prove helpful. Suggestions on writing a handbook address information sources, technical operating procedures, and the actual printing process. The book's next sections contain sample policies and procedures for the general dispatch center in the areas of personnel, security, response to subpoenas, major incident notification, and communications logs. Technical subjects are also examined, such as radio control panel functions, basic telephone techniques, and instant recall tape reorders. Over 40 procedures for a variety of situations are outlined for police dispatchers, including in-progress crimes, family disturbances, accidents, accidental alarm activation, criminal history information, and transportation of prisoners. The final section details fire dispatch procedures for classifying fire incidents, contacting rescue units, canceling alarms, notifying the water department, and obtaining information on special types of fires.