Home » News » Top Stories » 2005 » 9-1-1 Center Begins Accreditation, Seeks Public Input

Posted: August 3, 2005 Plano’s Public Safety Communications Department is voluntarily undergoing a rigorous Accreditation process, the first time the Department has attempted to attain this prestigious title. Public Safety Communications, or “9-1-1” as it is more commonly recognized, is the vital first connection between citizens and their requests for Police, Fire or medical emergency assistance. The Department also provides staffing and support for the City’s Emergency Operations Center, supports and maintains the City’s 800 MHz Trunked Radio System, and operates the City’s Emergency Warning System, comprised of outdoor warning sirens and a cable television emergency over-ride. The Department is working with the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) to attain the Accreditation. Accreditation improves the delivery of law enforcement service by offering a body of standards developed by law enforcement practitioners, covering a wide range of up-to-date law enforcement topics. It recognizes professional achievements by offering an orderly process for addressing and complying with applicable standards. “A team of assessors from CALEA will arrive August 27 to examine all aspects of the City of Plano Public Safety Communications (PSC) policies and procedures, management, operations and support services,” said Ron Timmons, PSC Director. “Verification by the team that PSC meets the Commission’s standards is part of our voluntary process to gain Accreditation, a highly prized recognition of communications professional excellence.” Besides the recognition of obtaining international excellence, the primary benefits of Accreditation include controlled liability insurance costs, administrative improvements, greater accountability from supervisors and increased governmental and community support. As part of the on-site assessment, members of the community are invited to offer comments during a public phone-in session. The public may call 972-941-7952 between 1pm and 5pm, August 28, to offer feedback on PSC’s ability to comply with CALEA standards. A copy of the standards is available for viewing at the Plano Municipal Center Action Center (first floor reception desk), Municipal Center, 1520 Avenue K. Persons who would like to offer written comments about Plano Public Safety Communications’ ability to meet the standards for Accreditation are requested to write: Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., 10306 Eaton Place, Suite 320, Fairfax, Virginia 22030-2201.