Emergency Communications Centre

Be the First Voice of Help

When someone in Woodstock dials 9-1-1, the first voice they hear is yours.

Emergency Communicators are calm, compassionate, and critical thinkers who play a vital role in keeping our community safe. They are the link between the public and first responders — managing emergency calls, dispatching resources, and coordinating response during high-pressure situations.

The Woodstock Police Service Emergency Communications Centre (ECC) operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing emergency and non-emergency communication services for police and partner agencies.

General Information

As an Emergency Communicator, you will:

• Answer 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for service
• Assess situations quickly and gather essential information
• Dispatch officers and resources through the Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system
• Maintain contact with units in the field, ensuring officer and public safety
• Provide guidance, reassurance, and direction to callers until help arrives

This career is fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding — requiring composure, empathy, and exceptional communication skills.

ECC staff are trained to handle everything from routine calls to critical, life-threatening emergencies.

Requirements

To be considered for a position in the Emergency Communications Centre, applicants must:

• Be 18 years of age or older

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

• Have a Grade 12 diploma (or equivalent) — relevant post-secondary education is an asset

• Possess excellent communication and listening skills

• Have strong multitasking and computer proficiency

• Work effectively under pressure and make sound decisions in stressful situations

• Be willing to work shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays

• Pass a background investigation and security clearance

• Additional assets include:

  • Previous experience in dispatch, customer service, or emergency communications

  • Knowledge of radio systems, emergency protocols, and geographical familiarity with Oxford County