Lexington E911 Honored with APCO Award for Commitment to Excellence

In what can only be described as a tremendous honor, the Lexington Enhanced 911 (E911) team is in sunny Orlando, Florida this week, attending the prestigious 2024 Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International Conference. Surrounded by professionals from the public safety sector, the team stands proud not just to represent Lexington but to showcase their commitment to effective emergency communications.

This year is particularly significant for Lexington E911, as they were recently recognized for achieving CALEA Accredited Communications Center status with distinction. This prominent award signifies that the E911 center not only met but often surpassed the rigorous standards established by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).

A Commitment to Excellence

For those unacquainted, CALEA accreditation is no small feat. It involves a thorough evaluation of operational processes, policies, and communications standards—an exhaustive journey with 203 specific benchmarks to hit. These standards range from Human Resources aspects like recruitment, selection, and training to Organizational Structure, direction, and supervision. In simpler terms, it’s about making sure that when emergencies arise, those on the other end of the line are prepared, trained, and ready to respond as effectively as possible.

This dedication to service is not new to the Lexington E911 team. They have been working hand in hand with the Lexington Police Department (LPD) on the CALEA accreditation process since the early 2000s. The LPD’s accreditation covers 483 standards, many of which lean heavily on the efficiency of communication. The E911 team has continually assisted the LPD in meeting these standards over the years, showcasing a unified front committed to public safety.

APCO: Leading the Way in Public Safety Communication

The APCO conference serves as a golden opportunity for public safety communication professionals to gain insight, training, and networking that will enhance their capabilities back home. This year’s event has an added layer of urgency as Tropical Storm Debby rolls through the region, reminding everyone of the necessity and effectiveness of timely communication during emergencies.

Attendees get a chance to connect with experts, exchange ideas, and attend workshops covering the latest advancements in communication technology. Such advancements can prove vital for local governments striving to protect and serve their communities more effectively.

Staying Prepared for Any Emergency

Beyond their impressive accolades, Lexington E911 is committed to spreading awareness about the various hazards that can arise in everyday life—from natural disasters to household dangers. They’ve developed a range of resources to help the public be prepared. For instance, the Be Ready Lexington program encourages residents to understand risks like earthquakes, extreme cold, flooding, and more while promoting crucial safety tips, such as “Turn Around – Don’t Drown” during flooding scenarios.

They also emphasize the importance of being equipped for emergencies, whether at home or on the road. The “Ready Kat” initiative suggests that every family set up an emergency kit, including financial documents, food, and medical supplies. There are even specialized kits for pets, seniors, and vehicles.

Connect with Lexington E911

Lexington E911 is taking significant steps toward not only safeguarding the community but also ensuring everyone knows how to respond effectively in emergencies. From creating preparedness plans for those with disabilities to offering shelter-in-place advice, the department’s effort to keep everyone informed is commendable.

Residents are urged to download the BeReady Phone App and consider acquiring a NOAA Weather Radio for updates during severe weather. Awareness campaigns also push for getting educated on when to contact 911, including the new capability to text emergencies directly to the Lexington 9-1-1 service.

Conclusion

With the APCO award to shine a spotlight on their diligence and commitment, it’s clear that Lexington E911 is not just a call center; they are a community cornerstone committed to protecting lives and property. They’ll be back from the conference armed with fresh insights and innovations to ensure that Lexington continues to be a safer place for all its residents. Whether it’s a call about a household fire or severe weather warnings, you can trust that Lexington E911 is ready to respond.