9-1-1 TC Spotlight: Mariah with Woodland Park PD

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

My name is Mariah, I work for the Woodland Park Police Department (WPPD), I have worked for WPPD for 7 months now.

2. I’m sure you hear a lot of interesting stories when answering calls, but what is one story that sticks out in your head that might have been scary, but turned out funny and/or everything worked out after the call.

Recently I received a call from a mother, her child had just started college and indulged in a handful of illegal narcotics. While under the influence this party had come to believe that he was a vampire and took a walk through the woods while carrying his laundry basket.

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

We enjoy baked goods just has much as the Police Officers *wink wink*.

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

I enjoy how interesting and off-the-wall some days can be.

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

I always want to do my absolute best and never make a mistake, but I am unfortunately human, so, the hardest part for me is making a mistake.

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

It’s a way to quickly and efficiently get someone the help they need.

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

9-1-1 is for emergencies only. To ensure that true emergencies are tended to as soon as possible call your local Police Department’s, or Sheriff’s office administrative number for non-emergencies.

8. 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?

I chose my job because I have always known that I have wanted to help people, I just wasn’t sure in which capacity. I knew being hands on with a patient or victim (such as being a Nurse or Paramedic) wasn’t something I wanted to do. I would tell those that are about to enter the workforce to reflect on their strengths and find out what inspires them, make a list of the jobs that match both criteria’s, and apply…apply everywhere.