Public Safety Dispatcher Onboarding Checklist

Public Safety Dispatcher Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Public Safety Dispatcher starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Emergency Services onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Public Safety Dispatcher, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Public Safety Dispatcher onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Public Safety Dispatcher Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new public safety dispatcher attends an orientation session to familiarize themselves with the company’s policies, procedures, and organizational structure. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated trainer.

2. Introduction to the Emergency Services Department: The new dispatcher is introduced to the emergency services department, including meeting the team members, supervisors, and other key personnel. This task is usually performed by the department manager or a designated team leader.

3. Training on Emergency Dispatch Systems: The new dispatcher receives training on the emergency dispatch systems used by the company, such as computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software, radio communication systems, and other relevant technologies. This training is typically conducted by experienced dispatchers or trainers within the department.

4. Familiarization with Emergency Protocols: The new dispatcher is trained on emergency protocols and procedures, including how to handle different types of emergencies, prioritize calls, and provide appropriate instructions to callers. This training is usually conducted by experienced dispatchers or trainers within the department.

5. Call-Taking and Dispatching Training: The new dispatcher undergoes training on call-taking techniques, active listening skills, and effective communication strategies to handle emergency calls efficiently. They also receive training on dispatching procedures, including assigning resources, coordinating with emergency responders, and maintaining accurate records. This training is typically conducted by experienced dispatchers or trainers within the department.

6. Shadowing Experienced Dispatchers: The new dispatcher shadows experienced dispatchers to observe and learn from their day-to-day operations. This allows them to gain practical knowledge and understand the nuances of the job. Experienced dispatchers within the department perform this task.

7. Practice Simulations: The new dispatcher participates in practice simulations to enhance their skills in handling emergency situations. These simulations involve mock emergency calls and dispatch scenarios to provide hands-on experience and build confidence. Experienced dispatchers or trainers within the department facilitate these simulations.

8. Familiarization with Geographic Area: The new dispatcher undergoes training to familiarize themselves with the geographic area they will be serving. This includes learning about street names, landmarks, and other relevant information to effectively provide directions and assistance to callers. This training is typically conducted by experienced dispatchers or trainers within the department.

9. Review of Policies and Procedures: The new dispatcher reviews and familiarizes themselves with the company’s policies and procedures related to emergency services, including confidentiality, data protection, and ethical guidelines. This task is usually performed independently by the new dispatcher, with support and guidance from supervisors or trainers.

10. Ongoing Professional Development: The new dispatcher is encouraged to engage in ongoing professional development activities, such as attending workshops, conferences, and training sessions to stay updated with the latest industry practices and enhance their skills. The responsibility for seeking and participating in professional development opportunities lies with the new dispatcher, with support from supervisors and the human resources department

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Public Safety Dispatcher checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Public Safety Dispatcher up to speed and working well in your Emergency Services team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.