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Communications Unit

The Communications Unit is often referred to as the “Heart of the Department” and handles a diverse array of responsibilities. The role of the Communications Officer is recognized as one of the most stressful within the department. Communications Officers must quickly evaluate and manage emergencies ranging from routine inquiries to life-threatening situations. They balance professionalism with efficiency and serve behind the scenes as the vital connection between emergency response teams and the distressed callers that require their services.

Our Communications Unit operates 24 hours a day and is staffed by a full-time Communications Supervisor, five full-time Communications Officers, and one part-time Communications Officer. They handle all requests related to police, fire, and medical services, whether emergency or non-emergency. The Communication Officers are outstanding, dedicated professionals who dispatch immediate resources in emergency situations, they provide reassurance to injured victims, they are the calming voice when a frightened caller is awaiting help from police or fire, and they provide constant communications to our officers to help keep them safe and informed. Like officers in the field, they deal with a multitude of crisis situations and make split second decisions. 

New Communications Trainees undergo a rigorous 12-week training program, pairing them with experienced trainers. Trainees are evaluated daily on various aspects including appearance, attitude, job knowledge, performance, and interdepartmental relationships. This intensive training prepares them to handle the diverse challenges they will face in their roles effectively.

Learn the Do's and Don'ts of How to Use 9-1-1 

Do - Call 911 in the event of a Police, Fire, or Medical Emergency

  • Do - Remain calm
  • Do - Speak clearly
  • Do - Answer all questions
  • Don't - Make prank calls
  • Don't - Hang up, before speaking with an operator first
  • Don't - Yell into the phone
  • Don't - Call if there is no emergency
Questions a 911 operator may ask:
  • Your name, address and telephone number
  • Where and when the incident occurred
  • Is medical attention needed
  • Suspect description and mode of travel
  • Vehicle description and direction of travel
  • Were any weapons involved and if so, what kind
  • Are drugs or alcohol a factor
  • Are all parties involved still there or in the area
Why so many questions??
911 operators are often faced with the dilemma of speaking with a distraught caller; the operator is usually the first contact during this critical time. It is important to remember that when speaking with a 911 operator, you must try to remain calm! This makes it easier for our operators to understand you. We understand this is easier said than done, all we ask is that you try to be as calm as possible so we can get the information we need. Even though it may seem like there are too many questions. dispatchers are trained to ask specific questions for different circumstances. With the cooperation of the caller, we can ensure the most prompt and safest emergency response possible.

Questions or concerns regarding the use of 9-1-1 may be directed to Communications Supervisor Megan Roane at (321) 773-4400 ext. 493 

Contact Us

City of Satellite Beach
565 Cassia Boulevard
Satellite Beach, FL 32937 
(321) 773-4407

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