Phoenix Police Department

The Phoenix Police Communications Bureau's original location is at headquarters. A second center is located with the Property Management Bureau downtown.

911 might be one of the most important numbers you ever dial. In an emergency, it’s essential that someone is there to answer that call. But, there is a severe shortage of 911 dispatchers in Arizona right now. The Phoenix Fire Department’s Jim Frazier says it’s result of the pandemic and the incredible stress of the job.

Frazier is fire communications manager and a longtime 911 dispatcher. He said the mental health outcomes for people in his profession can be serious — but there are efforts now to improve them.

HB 2717 would designate dispatchers as first responders and give them access to more access to mental health services. Frazier spoke with The Show more about it.

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