Emergency Communications Center Branches Out with Tree of Life Mural
By Michelle Williams, Senior Administrative Assistant, Orange County Emergency Communications
The Orange County Emergency Communications Center (ECC) is excited to announce the addition of a "Tree of Life ” mural to recognize dispatchers for their lifesaving measures. Like leaves on a tree, communications officers provide a critical canopy of protection and assistance in the chain of emergency response. To give these hard - working individuals the support and recognition they deserve, Chris Cord, ECC Director, commissioned a “ Tree of Life ” mural in the Emergency Communications Center. The mural will come to life as communications officers place leaves or birds with names and a date on the tree, signifying a life saved or a baby delivered. The first leaves were placed on the tree by Communications Officers Greg Bedinger, Abbe Smithson, Cassandra Keaton, and Justin Lynch. Each instructed a caller to perform CPR that ultimately saved a life in 2024. More than just art on the wall, the “ Tree of Life ”, is a morale booster and motivator. No two leaves on the tree will be alike. They will each represent a call, a person, an event, or a gesture of good that signifies the communications officer ’ s knowledge and experience giving shape and form to 9 - 1 - 1 communications. The tree will help demonstrate to responders, the public, and other dispatchers the incredible work that is done every day in the community. “ Operating behind the scenes, emergency communications personnel are often less visible than other emergency services. However, as the first first responders, the instructions we give callers are the initial step in potentially life - saving measures. This tree will serve as a reminder not only for our staff of the importance of the work they do but will also educate visitors in our role in public safety, ” stated Cord. Those who have experienced a lifesaving event may request the addition of a leaf to the 911 Telecommunicator Tree of Life at www.911treeoflife.org. This nationwide project allows individuals to share their stories and give recognition to our dedicated communications officers. For more information, please contact the Emergency Communication Center ’ s Administrative Office at (540) 672 - 0511.
Page 17 | May 2024
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