Communications

The Communications Division is under the authority of a civilian, who carries the rank and authority of a Captain within the Agency.  The division is composed of one Director of Communications, one Operations Coordinator, One Communications Supervisor, four Communications Team Leaders, seven Communications Officers, and two part-time Communications Officers. The Director of Communications commands the Communications Center and is responsible for the following: staffing and managing the Center’s operation; implementing policies and procedures for the efficient operation of the Center; planning and coordinating the technical support of the Center; and providing 24-hour dispatching for law enforcement, fire and EMS.

The Communications Center is known as a PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point) and receives all 9-1-1 calls for Fluvanna County. The Center is staffed by Communications Officers (also known as dispatchers). They serve as the first line of communication for emergency and non-emergency calls. 

Communications Officers are dedicated to providing service with courtesy, respect and compassion for all citizens and emergency responders.  The goal is to provide service as quickly as possible, by utilizing technology and experience to those in time of need.

It is estimated that on average, every individual in the U.S. will call for emergency assistance at least twice during their lifetime. The Communications Division operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  Dialing 9-1-1 saves valuable time in an emergency.  According to nationwide statistics, it can take up to 2.5 minutes to find your telephone directory and another 30 seconds to locate the correct number. In the event of an emergency, 3 minutes can be a very long time, which is why understanding the importance of 9-1-1 is critical.

All about 9-1-1: Frequently Asked Questions