Toronto – Toronto Fire Services (TFS) Chief Matthew Pegg welcomed 19 call-takers/dispatchers at a graduation ceremony for the newest members of the TFS communications team.
Call-takers/dispatchers make quick, high-pressure decisions that protect the public and first responders during an emergency. These calm and professional voices are the first point of contact for residents in need of emergency services. The 19 graduates will now be assigned to platoons and assume the important tasks of answering and processing emergency calls, dispatching TFS resources and personnel to emergencies, and supporting first responders behind the scenes.
The recruits graduated from an eight-week training program and have received National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) professional qualifications as Public Safety Telecommunications Personnel.
TFS is the largest fire service in Canada and the City of Toronto’s only all-hazards emergency response organization providing Toronto residents, visitors and businesses with world-class fire protection services and emergency response.
Toronto is the largest city in North America whose fire service is accredited by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI).
“On behalf of Toronto Fire Services, I wish to congratulate each graduate and their families on this joyous occasion. These recruits have successfully completed intensive telecommunications training, preparing themselves for the challenges associated with emergency response in North America’s fourth largest city. I am confident each graduate will serve the residents of Toronto with courage and compassion, and we proudly welcome them to our team.” – Chief Matthew Pegg, Toronto Fire Services