Behind every emergency call is a powerful partnership built on trust, teamwork, and community strength.

When people think about 911, we often picture a phone call in a moment of crisis and flashing lights arriving soon after. What many don’t see is the deep partnership working behind every emergency response, a partnership built on teamwork, communication, and trust. Here in Marshall County, emergency services are not separate agencies working alone. They are a connected system of people who care deeply about this community and show up every day ready to protect it.

At the heart of that system sits the Marshall County Communications Center. Our 911 Communications Specialists are the very first contact when someone needs help answering emergency and non-emergency calls. They gather critical information, provide life-saving instructions, and coordinate the rapid response of law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other resources. Every successful outcome depends on strong collaboration between dispatch, responders, and the community itself.

The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, the Marshalltown Police Department, and the State Center Police Department respond day and night to emergencies ranging from injuries, and accidents to dangerous and unpredictable situations. These deputies and officers walk into uncertainty without hesitation, driven by a commitment to protect neighbors, families, and strangers alike. Their courage and professionalism are a cornerstone of public safety in our county.

Our fire departments, both career and volunteer, are equally vital. Firefighters don’t just fight fires; they respond to medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, severe weather, and rescues. Our volunteer firefighters drop everything when a pager sounds, often leaving work, family dinners, or sleep to serve their communities. That level of dedication reflects the true heart of Marshall County.

We are also incredibly grateful for the men and women of UPH EMS, and our Volunteer First Responders throughout our County. They meet people at their most vulnerable moments, providing not only skilled medical care but calm reassurance when it matters most. From cardiac emergencies to traumatic injuries, their fast actions save lives every day.

Together, law enforcement, fire, EMS, volunteers, and your 911 Communications Specialists form a seamless response network. But there is another essential partner in public safety, YOU, our community itself.

When residents call 911 promptly, provide clear information, follow instructions, and look out for one another, it strengthens the entire emergency system. Teaching children when and how to call 911, keeping house numbers visible, updating emergency contacts, and checking on neighbors during severe weather are small actions that make a big difference.

Communication plays a powerful role in this partnership. During emergencies, our Communications Specialists serve as the bridge between callers and responders, relaying accurate information in real time so help arrives prepared. Clear communication helps responders stay safe and ensures callers receive guidance until help reaches them.

Over the past year, Marshall County has faced its share of challenges, severe storms, complex medical calls, serious accidents, emotionally difficult situations, and even bitter cold days. Through it all, what stands out most is the resilience and compassion of this community. We have seen responders supporting one another, neighbors helping neighbors, and families expressing gratitude after difficult moments.

Our 911 Communications Specialists deserve special recognition. Often called the “First, First Responders,” they are the unseen professionals behind every emergency call. They hear fear, panic, grief, and chaos, sometimes all in one shift, yet remain steady, focused, and compassionate.

These professionals are specially trained in emergency situations, crisis communication, while utilizing advanced technology systems. But beyond training, they bring heart. Their calm voices guide callers through possibly the worst moments of their lives, helping maintain control until responders arrive. They may never meet the people they help, but the impact they make is life-changing.

As we continue to move into the year ahead, strengthening these partnerships remains a top priority. Ongoing training, improved technology, clear communication, and community education will continue to help us adapt to new challenges and keep Marshall County safe.

Public safety will always be about people working together. It will always be about your 911 Communications Specialist answering the call, responders rushing to the scene, and a community supporting one another when it matters most.

To our 911 Communications Specialists, Law Enforcement Deputies and Officers, Firefighters, EMS providers, and Volunteer Firefighters and First Responders, thank you for your dedication, courage, and compassion. You are the backbone of public safety in Marshall County.

And to the citizens of Marshall County, thank you for your trust and support. Together, we truly are Marshall County Strong.

——-

Rhonda Braudis, CPE, RPL, NREMT, is the Marshall County 911 Communications Director.