Training
The Bureau is responsible for minimum mandatory staff training requirements for Enhanced 9-1-1 call answering and dispatch.
Regular Course Offerings
- PSAP New Hire Training
The Bureau continues to offer training for PSAP new hires at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy. This two-day course certifies call takers and dispatchers on
9-1-1 procedures and use of the communications equipment. Visit Training Schedule.
- PSAP Administrator Training
For supervisors and administrators, there is an additional half-day of training on computer server maintenance and database discrepancy management.
- Emergency Telecommunicator Course
The ETC program is mandatory in Maine for all newly hired fulltime dispatchers, and is designed and produced by the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch (NAED). The course (40 hours minimum) is designed to train new employees unfamiliar with emergency communication centers, emergency telecommunication technology, interpersonal communication, legal issues, and job stress factors. Visit Training Schedule.
- Emergency Fire Dispatch Certification
The Emergency Fire Dispatcher (EFD) through the use of the FPDS™ brings the science of structured call processing to the fire-rescue field. Completion of this course provides students with confidence to begin using the protocol on-line in the busiest of communication centers. Classes use hands-on teaching, class participation, simulated and actual calls, and feedback to prepare the students for work in a communication center.Visit Training Schedule.
- Emergency Medical Dispatch Certification
The Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) has been recognized as an essential component of effective EMS systems. Proper and timely training as well as a sound Medical Protocol are what help EMDs deliver quality care to the calling public with emergency medical needs. Participants who complete the 3-day course will be eligible for certification through the International Academy of EMD. To be EMD-certified, the applicant must also be CPR-certified through the National Safety Council, American Heart Association, American Red Cross, European Resuscitation Council, or equivalent. We recommend this training be completed prior to attending the EMD course. Visit Training Schedule.
- Emergency Medical Dispatch Quality Assurance (ED-Q)
A two-day advanced class for those who have the responsibility to implement and operate a quality assurance review program for their EMD center. Visit Training Schedule.
- EMD AQUA Training
An intensive 1-day seminar to teach ED-Q personnel in the utilities of the AQUA software, used to evaluate & score QA compliance for EMD calls. Generation of management reports also covered. Visit Training Schedule.
- EMD Pro QA Software Training
An intensive 4 hour certification course to teach EMD-certified calltakers in the use of the EMD protocol software from Priority Dispatch Corp. Visit Training Schedule.
In-Service Offerings
The Bureau frequently sponsors training courses for continued education. To find current offerings, visit the online Training Schedule.
Outside Agency Training
As a service for local dispatch agencies, the Bureau allows qualified agencies to advertise dispatch related training opportunities on its Training Schedule. To submit a course or view outside training opportunities, visit Training Schedule.
