Burbank Honors Telecomm Workers for 911 Heroics

City recognizes team that handled over 181,000 calls last year, including 38,000 emergencies.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:57pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a telephone headset and keypad lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the critical role of telecommunication workers in emergency response.The Burbank Police Department's telecommunication team, the unsung heroes who handle over 181,000 calls annually, including 38,000 emergencies, are recognized for their professionalism and calmness in supporting the community during crises.Burbank Today

The Burbank Police Department's telecommunication workers were honored by the city for their commitment and dedication, fielding over 181,000 calls last year, 38,000 of which were 911 emergencies. Police Chief Rafael Quintero praised the team's professionalism and calmness in supporting the community during crises, and Mayor Tamala Takahashi recognized the 11-person communication team with a proclamation for National Public Safety Telecommunications Week.

Why it matters

Telecommunication workers play a vital role in public safety, serving as the first point of contact for emergency calls and providing a calming presence during high-stress situations. This recognition highlights the importance of their work and the challenges they face in managing the volume of calls, especially for 911 emergencies.

The details

The Burbank Police Department's telecommunication team handled over 181,000 calls last year, including 38,000 911 emergencies. Police Chief Rafael Quintero praised the team's professionalism and calmness in supporting the community during crises, ensuring that callers feel supported and that the necessary assistance is provided.

  • The recognition took place during National Public Safety Telecommunications Week, which runs from April 12-18, 2026.

The players

Rafael Quintero

The Police Chief of the Burbank Police Department.

Tamala Takahashi

The Mayor of Burbank, California.

Ashley Gastil

An operator on the Burbank Police Department's 11-person communication team.

Brittany Lerian

An operator on the Burbank Police Department's 11-person communication team.

Brianna Berridge

A supervisor on the Burbank Police Department's 11-person communication team.

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What they’re saying

“When someone is dealing with crisis, whatever it may be, these people right here maintain that level of professionalism and calmness that is necessary to make sure that the community feels supported and those people who are calling 911 are supported.”

— Rafael Quintero, Police Chief

The takeaway

This recognition highlights the vital role that telecommunication workers play in public safety, serving as the first point of contact for emergency calls and providing a calming presence during high-stress situations. Their dedication and professionalism are essential in ensuring the community feels supported and that necessary assistance is provided during crises.