REGINA — From traffic collisions to violent crimes, the Saskatchewan RCMP Operational Communications Centre (OCC) plays a vital role during emergencies across the province. On average, Saskatchewan RCMP OCC in Regina answers approximately 3.5 calls every five minutes.
That number is increasing: the OCC received 366,737 calls for service in 2024 – four per cent more than in 2023. More than 4,400 of them were classified as Priority 1 – life-threatening or urgent emergencies requiring immediate police intervention.
“These numbers – and the trend we’re seeing – paint a picture of the demands placed on emergency communication services and officers who respond 24/7 across the province,” says Jocelyn James, manager of the Saskatchewan RCMP OCC.
The OCC has already answered 169,598 calls for service in the first five months of 2025 (the last statistics available at time of publication). Of these, more than 1,720 were Priority 1 calls.
The OCC takes calls that come through the 310-RCMP non-emergency line, but also 911 calls.
Fulfilling work
“On average, a call-taker would take approximately 150 calls during their shift and they never know what's on the other end of the line. No matter the call, we gather information and send the right kind of help for the situation — often while managing several other incidents happening across the province at the same time,” says Jocelyn. “It’s intense work, but it’s also very personally fulfilling knowing you are helping others in what could be their worse moment.”
During the mass casualty homicides that occurred on James Smith Cree Nation and in Weldon in September 2022, Saskatchewan RCMP dispatchers played a key role in monitoring the radio, scribing, along with monitoring the incoming files for new information. One dispatcher recalls the moment the suspect was spotted and the pursuit to bring them into custody began. The dispatcher described it as a highly stressful moment but remained calm and focused on the situation and the necessary tasks. Looking back, the dispatcher described it as the most rewarding day of work.
Helping people can come through smaller acts, too. Recently, a call-taker received a call from an elderly caller saying that they had fallen out of a wheelchair while putting on a pair of slippers. The caller said that they were alone, frightened, frustrated and needed help. The call-taker reassured the elderly caller that help was on the way.
Looking back on the experience, the call-taker said that moment stayed with them and how they felt gratitude of being the one to answer the call in someone’s moment of need. Call-takers and dispatchers offer safety, connection, and compassion — sometimes when it matters most.
Help answer the call – join the team
If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love to problem-solve and enjoy a career where no day is ever the same, then this opportunity may be for you.
Telecommunications operator trainees receive a full salary of $64,625 during their training period. Upon successful completion of training, their salary increases to a range of $70,688 to $86,007 annually, in addition to applicable allowances.
Join the Saskatchewan RCMP Operational Communication Centre and be a part of a team where you'll make a difference each and every day.
For more information or to apply, visit: https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/telecommunications-operators-9-1-1-dispatcher
- Submitted by RCMP Media Relations
