02/19/2023
"UNDER THE HEADSET" IN WASHINGTON COUNTY (3rd Edition)
If you've ever listened to the scanner or experienced the need to call 9-1-1... are one of our First Responder partners in Washington County or some of our neighboring communities, you most likely have heard the voices of members of our Communications Center team. Maybe you've wondered who's and what it is they do behind the scenes?
We're excited that some members of our team are participating in our community engagement series and we'll be highlighting them, some of their experiences and what they would like to share with you about the critical work they do for our First Responder partners, residents and those passing through the communities we serve.
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INTRODUCE YOURSELF
Hi, I’m Communications Officer Kristal Washburn!
SERVING SINCE
I’ve been serving “Under the Headset” since 2009 with the Warren County Sheriff's Office NY and joined the team at Washington County, NY - Department of Public Safety as a per-diem Communications Officer in 2017.
TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND
I started out in the Public Safety field in Emergency Medical Services as an EMT in 2005 and still am a member of the Bay Ridge Rescue Squad.
WHAT INTERESTED YOU IN GOING “UNDER THE HEADSET”?
I became interested in being a Communications Officer while starting out in EMS, it was always intriguing hearing the dispatchers put out calls.
IS BEING “UNDER THE HEADSET” WHAT YOU EXPECTED?
Little did I know at the time how much work it actually is. To some it may seem like we are just a call taker, but it is so much more. Throughout my career I have handled a vast number of emergencies, from childbirth to the passing of a loved one (even my own). Growing up playing sports I have always been a part of a team, that has helped me in this career to work well with my coworkers, both in Communications, Law Enforcement, Fire and EMS.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF BEING “UNDER THE HEADSET”?
My favorite part of being "Under the Headset" is helping people. While every call may not result in a positive outcome, it is rewarding knowing you have helped someone in their time of need. My favorite callers are children, believe it or not they follow instructions better than most adults when it comes to emergencies! At times they can be difficult by not knowing their address, but you can usually get them to find a piece of mail or go outside and look at the residence.
WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND MOST CHALLENGING “UNDER THE HEADSET”?
The most challenging part of my career has been dealing with the upswing of mental health emergencies we have had since the onset of COVID. It is my nature to want to help everyone, so when I cannot, it takes its toll. It has been challenging to know that it is "ok to not be ok" at times.
WHAT WOULD YOU WANT THE COMMUNITY TO KNOW?
Since working Under the Headset since 2009, I can share with those in need to remember we are people too, and… we want to help! More times than not we often are on the receiving end of a "just send someone", but please know we are working together as a team to get you the proper assistance, whether that be Law Enforcement, EMS, Fire or all of them. We are utilizing any and all resources we have at to assist you in your time of need, and we are hoping for a positive outcome. If you have young children, PLEASE teach them their address, mom/dad's first and last name, as well as phone number – this will help them (and us) greatly during an emergency.
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Thank you for the opportunity to share a bit about members of our team, their experiences and the important work they do to ensure our First Responder partners make it home safe and the members and visitors of our communities get the assistance they need! Stay tuned to our social media channels for future editions!
