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.
Experienced dispatcher providing one-on-one training to a new recruit while reviewing incident maps and CAD data on a triple-monitor workstation.

The Role of the CTO: Coaching, Teaching, and Supporting Under Pressure

This article outlines the essential functions of a Communications Training Officer (CTO) in dispatch, from live coaching to emotional support. Discover practical tools, proven workflows, and leadership strategies to help CTOs succeed under pressure while shaping the next generation of public safety professionals.

The Role of the CTO: Coaching, Teaching, and Supporting Under Pressure Read More »

Female emergency dispatcher wearing a headset, focused on communication at a call center.

Building Resilience: Training Dispatchers to Handle Traumatic Calls

Dispatchers face emotionally intense calls that can leave lasting impacts. This article explores training strategies that prepare them to handle traumatic incidents while preserving their mental health and operational effectiveness. With insights grounded in industry standards and real-world experience, we offer tools, scripts, and best practices to help public safety professionals build resilience before, during, and after critical events.

Building Resilience: Training Dispatchers to Handle Traumatic Calls Read More »

Woman using a laptop while standing in front of a server room filled with network equipment.

The Benefits of Integrated Emergency Management Systems for Dispatch and Fire Services

Integrated Emergency Management Systems (IEMS) unify planning, communication, and response efforts across agencies—streamlining workflows between dispatchers and fire services. This post explores how these systems improve coordination, boost operational efficiency, and elevate dispatchers as key players in incident command structures.

The Benefits of Integrated Emergency Management Systems for Dispatch and Fire Services Read More »

Close-up of a computer screen displaying a financial trading chart with fluctuating candlesticks.

Data-Driven Decision Making: How Dispatch Centers and Fire Services Utilize Big Data

Big data is transforming the way fire services and dispatch centers operate—powering smarter decisions, faster response times, and stronger leadership. Learn how public safety professionals can leverage data analytics to improve outcomes, allocate resources efficiently, and assert their role in strategic planning.

Data-Driven Decision Making: How Dispatch Centers and Fire Services Utilize Big Data Read More »

Speaker presenting to a group of professionals seated in a training room with a projected screen.

Cross-Disciplinary Training: Learning from Law Enforcement and EMS Dispatch Protocol

Cross-disciplinary training empowers fire dispatchers with adaptable skills and operational insights from law enforcement and EMS protocols. By understanding diverse procedures, dispatchers enhance interagency communication, improve incident outcomes, and elevate their leadership role within ICS. Discover how integrated training strengthens your effectiveness and helps your team thrive during multi-jurisdictional emergencies.

Cross-Disciplinary Training: Learning from Law Enforcement and EMS Dispatch Protocol Read More »