The Broward Sheriff’s Office Regional Communications Division processes more than 1.7 million calls for service each year, serving as the critical link between the public and emergency responders across Broward County, according to Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony.
In a message marking National Safety Month in June, Tony said every emergency response begins with a call answered by a highly trained communications professional who must remain calm under pressure, make rapid decisions and ensure help is dispatched without delay.
The Regional Communications Division operates one of the nation’s largest consolidated dispatch systems from three Public Safety Answering Points. The division handles both emergency and non-emergency calls, dispatches law enforcement and fire rescue units, and manages teletype communications across Broward County’s unincorporated areas, 28 municipalities and 15 fire rescue agencies.
The division also supports critical infrastructure, including Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades, the Broward County Courthouse and county detention facilities.
According to BSO, Regional Communications Operators are responsible for receiving 911 calls, assessing incidents, prioritizing emergencies and directing the appropriate resources to the scene. Operators maintain constant radio communication with deputies and firefighters, provide real-time updates as situations develop and monitor responder safety.
They also perform rapid database checks, including warrant verifications, restraining order confirmations, driver’s license status reviews and access to state and national criminal justice information systems.
BSO said the division operates around the clock and processes more than 1.7 million calls for service annually. Approximately 450 employees work within the communications system.
Tony said the agency has invested in new technologies to improve emergency response capabilities. Among those upgrades is Text-to-911, which allows individuals who are speech-impaired or unable to safely place a voice call to communicate with emergency services through text messages.
The sheriff also highlighted the implementation of Automatic Resource Locator technology, which integrates Global Positioning System capabilities into radios, allowing communications personnel to identify locations more quickly and dispatch assistance more efficiently.
While much of the division’s work involves emergency situations, operators also handle a large volume of non-emergency calls. BSO encourages residents to use its non-emergency line, 954-764-HELP (4357), for issues such as identity theft reports, roaming animals and suspicious activity that does not require an immediate emergency response.
“The men and women of BSO’s Regional Communications Division are the ‘first’ first responders,” Tony said. “They are the link between those in need and those who respond.”
He added that the community is safer because of their professionalism, commitment and dedication to public service.
