A 911 operator has to be ready for anything when they pick up the phone. Plenty deal with prank calls, minor emergencies, or long periods of silence on their shifts. However, 911 is ultimately an emergency line and people do call desperate for help in a truly awful situation. With this in mind, 911 operators receive extensive training in many important skills useful in an emergency, particularly first aid.
A 911 phone operator is often the first emergency respondent many people talk to, and their knowledge of first aid procedures for an injured victim could make a huge difference until paramedics take over. Anyone considering a career in the 911 field definitely needs to receive extensive training in emergency first aid. Let’s take a look at what Houston-area 911 centers require and how you can best prepare yourself for your job.
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Required Training for 911 Operators
As a 911 operative, you’ll be required to intervene in any type of emergency situation. The training and certifications your new job will require may include:
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- CritiCall certification (for fast responses and critical thinking skills)
- Emergency telecommunication
- Suicide intervention
- Domestic violence response
- Knowledge of hazardous materials and poisons
- Emergency medical dispatch
- Typing and clerical certifications
- TLETS Terminal Operator certification
- Advanced CPR certification
- First aid training
Pro Tip: We offer online CPR classes that give you the same training as in-person courses! Most employers will accept online certifications as fulfilling their requirements.
Best Degrees for Houston 911 Operators
911 job centers seek out candidates with four-year degrees in relevant fields. While training is still required, your chances of working in a 911 call center increase if your degree is one of the following:
- Communications
- Psychology
- Homeland security
- Criminal justice
- Public security
- Emergency management
Preparing for Your New Career
911 operators take peoples’ lives in their hands multiple times a day, and must always be ready to provide medical information and instructions until experts arrive. Never underestimate the importance of your first aid training as you prepare to become a 911 phone operative.
Connect with us to find the best classes for your upcoming 911 career.
