911-Where's Your Emergency

Washington does not treat 911 operators with the respect they deserve. The Office of Management and Budget is responsible for a program known as the Standard Occupational Classification, which is an occupational data set that is widely used by state and federal authorities. It classifies 911 operators as “clerical workers.” This is outdated—and it needs to be fixed. 911 operators are first responders. When the unthinkable occurs, they are our first contact with public safety. Before a police radio crackles, a fire engine roars, or an ambulance races, there is a 911 professional who takes in a call and sets emergency response in motion. They deserve to be classified, like their public safety peers, as “protective service professionals.” Failing to provide them with this classification in Washington diminishes the importance of their role in crisis. It dismisses how they do everything from coordinating response from police and fire officials to providing medical assistance before paramedics arrive. In short, it is their judgment and expertise that connects us to help when we are in harm. It is time to fix this problem—and give 911 professionals the dignity of the public classification they deserve.