How to Prepare for a 911 Communications Dispatch Test

Any job involving crisis situation communications requires a high level of skill and knowledge in the areas of law, efficient use of communications radio, wireless and land-line telephone and computer equipment, peripherals and software. You must also be adept at stress management as it applies to yourself as well as individuals involved in crisis situations, efficient handling of difficult callers and the ability to listen carefully, evaluate the information and speak clearly and calmly to communicate information to the caller in the most efficient manner. There are many training programs that will prepare you to take your qualifying exams.

Instructions

1. Contact your local or state office of emergency services, local or state law enforcement organizations or federal homeland security agencies for advice on which training programs would be best for the specific jobs that are of interest to you. Working the 911 emergency number can have different requirements depending on location.

2. Contact the training facilities to ask their requirements, cost and whether there is a grant or financing program for students. The more you know about how to prepare, the better your chances of passing the tests. Take a training course that best applies to the job for which you hope to apply.

3. Take your training seriously and ask questions. You are training to be the lifeline between a person caught in crisis and the help he needs. This requires a proactive attitude, so do not shy away from participating in your education.

4. Practice any skills you will need for the test. For example, if the test is live, meaning you have to take simulated calls, practice your phone etiquette, typing and memory retention. If you have to take a written test, get a study guide and pore over the material.

Tips & Warnings

• Your job as a 911 dispatcher will put you in an extremely high-pressure position because each medical emergency call you receive may make the difference between life and death.

• Consider your personal response to stress. This is perhaps the most important part of preparing for the 911 Communications Dispatch test. Work on eliminating any habits that tend to create drama in your life and practice calm, quick response in everything you do.

References

• DISPATCH Magazine: Training Resources
• City of Foster City, California: Public Safety Dispatcher P.O. Written Test Information
• DISPATCH Magazine: Testing Resources

Resources

• California Police Officer Training Academy