Built for Dispatchers, Backed by Experience

Ted Adams

Ted is a seasoned public safety professional with over 30 years of experience as a fire department dispatcher, EMS operations supervisor, and volunteer firefighter. Passionate about training and operational excellence, he founded The Alarm Room to support and empower fire dispatchers and public safety communications professionals. Through insightful content and resources, Ted helps dispatchers enhance their resilience, professional growth, and on-the-job effectiveness.

Professional headshot of Ted Adams, smiling in a navy sweater and collared shirt against a neutral background.
A composed dispatch supervisor observes calmly as a team of emergency dispatchers works at their consoles in a dimly lit communications center.

Calm Leadership for Dispatch: Thrive in High-Stress Environments

Calm is contagious—especially in dispatch centers. This article explores how public safety leaders can regulate the emotional climate, reduce stress contagion, and model resilience under pressure. Learn how to lead by example, create predictability in chaos, and build a culture that supports emotional wellness for dispatchers in high-stress environments.

Calm Leadership for Dispatch: Thrive in High-Stress Environments Read More »

Dispatcher coordinating emergency response from fire communications center as firefighters battle a large commercial building blaze at night.

Remote Monitoring Systems: How Dispatch Centers Oversee Firefighter Health and Safety

Remote monitoring systems are revolutionizing fire dispatch by enabling real-time oversight of firefighter health and safety. From gas detection to vital sign tracking, these technologies allow dispatchers to act faster, intervene sooner, and ensure safer fireground operations. Learn how your center can enhance situational awareness and protect crews with modern monitoring tools.

Remote Monitoring Systems: How Dispatch Centers Oversee Firefighter Health and Safety Read More »

Stressed female emergency dispatcher experiencing mental fatigue during a high-pressure shift in a dimly lit communications center.

Crisis Within the Crisis: Supporting a Teammate Through Mental Health Struggles

Behind every headset is a human. This guide helps dispatchers and supervisors recognize when a teammate may be struggling emotionally or mentally—and offers actionable ways to provide compassionate support. Learn the signs, start the conversation, and help build a culture where no one suffers in silence.

Crisis Within the Crisis: Supporting a Teammate Through Mental Health Struggles Read More »

Focused fire dispatcher coordinating emergency response at a multi-monitor workstation during an active structure fire incident displayed on the wall.

From Good to Great: Why Specialized Fire Dispatchers Are the Key to Stronger, Smarter Fireground Operations

Specialized fire dispatchers are revolutionizing how fireground operations are handled—improving safety, communication, and tactical efficiency. Learn why dedicated fire roles in dispatch centers aren’t just helpful—they’re essential.

From Good to Great: Why Specialized Fire Dispatchers Are the Key to Stronger, Smarter Fireground Operations Read More »