When you find yourself involved in an emergency and you dial 911, you expect somebody to answer!

Often the folks on the other end of the line are the unsung heroes during critical times.

If it weren't for 911 dispatchers, folks experiencing an emergency would not get the help they need.

Needless to say, when a community has a critical need for 911 dispatchers, it raises concerns.

Due to recent staffing shortages, the Cascade County 911 Dispatch Center in Great Falls is hosting a hiring event to fast-track applicants.

What It Takes to Be a 911 Dispatcher

A 911 dispatcher is ultimately the first line of defense in emergencies.

Dispatchers handle emergency calls, dispatch first responders, and support people in crisis.

Here are a few of the skills needed to be a 911 dispatcher

  • Ability to listen, analyze, and have attention to detail.
  • The ability to write detailed reports and relay accurate information.
  • Handle high stress situations and de-escalate panic.
  • Offer life-saving instruction.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Must pass a psychological evaluation before employment.
  • Must pass an extensive background check before employment.

911 Dispatch Hiring Event Details

  • What: 911 Hiring Blitz
  • When: March 13, 2025, from Noon to 6 PM
  • Where: 3015 Airport Drive, Great Falls

Here's what you can expect at the event.

  • No appointment necessary—walk in!
  • Complete an online application on-site.
  • Fill out a pre-screening questionnaire.
  • Submit required waivers and have them notarized.
  • Participate in an on-the-spot interview.

A Glimpse into the Great Falls / Cascade County 911 Center

The 911 dispatch center in Cascade County provides 24/7 support to both law-enforcement and residents.

They serve approximately 40 agencies across Cascade County.

In 2024 alone, the center answered 138,648 calls for service, of which 34,563 involved emergencies.

The team consists of 20 full-time emergency dispatchers.

Learn more at JoinGreatFallsPD.com or follow them on Facebook at Join Great Falls 911.

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12 Dumb Reasons People Called 911

Most people who call the police or 911 usually are calling because they are in an emergency situation. Most people, not all people. Some people think that 911 is the perfect number to call to take care of every minor issue in their lives. 

Gallery Credit: Dave Fields

Top 17 Ways Americans End Up In The Emergency Room

The personal injury attorneys at John Foy & Associates, using information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), examined the non-fatal injuries that came into emergency rooms over the course of a year. See the #1 entry in the Top 17 Ways Americans Land In the Emergency Room for full methodology.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

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