Local News

Okanogan 911 Dispatch Named Team of the Year

Jul 09, 2015

The Washington state chapter of APCO/NENA recognized the members of the Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office 911 dispatch center for their outstanding performance during 2014’s Carlton Complex Fires, floods, power outages and telecommunications outages last summer.

During the WA APCO / NENA chapter’s June conference in Kennewick, WA the Okanogan 911 dispatch members were recognized as the Team of the Year during an awards banquet where other top performers from across the state were recognized for their individual telecommunicator performances.

The events leading up to and during the Carlton Complex Fire and subsequent events have been well documented. During the 2014 Carlton Complex fire and summer events the dispatch staff, like the residents of the county, endured personal challenges and losses associated with the fire. In the dispatch center staff handled an incredible increase in telephone and radio traffic under rapidly changing and difficult circumstances while maintaining effectiveness and professionalism. To best meet the needs of county residents and agencies staff work hours were increased and leave was cancelled as an “all hands on deck” situation was upon us. The individuals in the dispatch center performed superbly as team.

Each dispatch members received an individualized award and the traveling plaque is displayed outside the entrance to the dispatch center.

The Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office is proud to congratulate the dispatch team as they have been recognized as the Washington APCO/NENA Chapter’s Team of the Year.