Mount Olive police recognize communications officers during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

MOUNT OLIVE TOWNSHIP, NJ (Morris County) —  The Mount Olive Police Department is recognizing its Communications Officers during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, April 13–19, alongside emergency 911 operators and dispatchers who serve communities across the nation. These professionals, though often unseen, play a vital role in providing calm, guidance, and reassurance during emergencies.

In Mount Olive Township, every police, fire, and emergency medical service call begins in the Communications Center, located within Police Headquarters. The center operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is staffed by highly trained professionals dedicated to public safety.

In 2024, the Mount Olive Police Department received accreditation as a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP). This certification highlights the department’s commitment to excellence and the professionalism of its communications team.

Over the past year, Mount Olive Communications Officers answered 9,602 emergency 9-1-1 calls and 40,112 administrative calls. They also dispatched personnel to 3,829 fire and medical emergencies, while supporting police officers in responding to more than 90,000 service calls.

Before serving in the Communications Center, new hires are required to complete intensive training, which includes Emergency Medical Dispatch certification, 911 telecommunications, CPR, and more than 400 hours of hands-on instruction alongside senior officers. Only after successful completion of this training are they officially designated as Communications Officers. Ongoing education and professional development are also mandatory to maintain performance standards.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank our Communications Officers for the professionalism, expertise, and dedicated service they provide to the Mount Olive Township community, 24/7/365. I am so proud to work with such an outstanding group of people who exhibit calmness, courage, empathy, and leadership daily, and who serve a critical role in the success of our MOPD team. The highest standards and positive culture these professionals maintain have also contributed to our first NJSACOP PSAP Accreditation certification on June 13, 2024. Mount Olive Township is incredibly fortunate to have them all,” Chief Michael Spitzer said.