ECP110 - Introduction to Public Safety Communications

Outline information
Semester
Schools offering this subject
Last revision date 2023-10-02 00:09:58.357
Last review date 2023-10-19 15:05:11.447

Subject Title
Introduction to Public Safety Communications

Subject Description
This subject focuses on the special requirements and skills necessary for those entering the field of public safety communications. It will provide an overview of the profession and will cover the essential skills and processes associated with Communication Centre operations, including the gathering of information in emergency and non-emergency situations. It will also provide a fundamental understanding of 911 emergency services, including telephone and radio system operations. Upon completing this course, students will have the opportunity to complete the APCO (Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials) Public Safety Telecommunicator 1 Certificate examination.

Credit Status
This is a 911 & Emergency Services Communications Program prescribed credit.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

 

  1. Define the roles, responsibilities and qualities required of a Public Safety Communicator.
  1. Demonstrate the information systems used in public safety communications, including the phonetic alphabet, the 24-hour clock, other terminology and equipment recognition.
  1. Demonstrate effective telephone communications using active listening skills.
  1. Compare different communication styles, including face to face vs. telephone or radio.
  1. Demonstrate a variety of information gathering techniques used in emergency and non-emergency situations.
  1. Explain how public safety calls are classified for service.
  1. Demonstrate techniques for dealing with difficult callers.
  1. Explain the principles of customer service and explain how liability may affect Public Safety Communicators.
  1. Describe the importance of ethics in the public safety field.
  1. Describe the effect of the media on Communication Centre operations and explain how to communicate effectively with the media.
  1. Explain the importance of continued professional development in this quickly changing environment.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.