9-1-1 Telecommunicators Spotlight Blog: Lara Bell

1. Tell me a little bit about yourself: Where are you from, what agency do you work for, how long have you been there and what is your passion for working for 911?

Hi, I am Lara B. I have been dispatching off and on since I was 18. I started at my first agency in a very small department that was volunteer and even took a 911 call on the original old red phone. I have been to a few departments since, a lot of training, and I still come back to this line of work. I work for Ingleside Police Dept. and just recently returned back to work from being home with new baby that's now three years old. I had about 31/2 years previously with Ingleside. My passion for working this job is being able to serve in so many ways between emergency personnel and the general public.

 

2. What do you think people need to know about the people who answer the phones for 9-1-1? 

That we matter. We are more than a receptionist.

 

3. What do you enjoy most about your job and why?

When I am able to see a whole call through. Knowing that quick action helped saved someone in a time of need.

 

4. What do you think is the hardest part about working your job and why?

Hearing someone tell you their last words to repeat to their family.  That is a lot of weight to carry. When all you can do is be the calm voice for them, which is really hard.

 

5. Why do you think it is important for people to have 9-1-1 as a resource for emergency help?

A generalized number to reach for help. Organized and centralized to your area. It helps lessen confusion on how to obtain help when you need it.

 

6. If you could share one piece of advice with the world regarding 9-1-1, what would it be and why?

LOCATION! In an emergency situation, people often forget to give that critical piece of information. Please remember that we need to know where you are to get help to you.

 

7. If you were talking to kids graduating high school who were not sure what field that wanted to go into, what would you tell them about your job and why it is such a fulfilling and worthwhile job?

There is no other job like it. You get to help on so many different levels.